And we’ll show you two ways to help. Together, we can be a voice for change and protect Michigan’s land, air, water, public health, and democracy.
April 30th, 2024
On April 30, 2024, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson continued her collaborative effort with the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) and local sheriff’s offices to assist returning citizens in restoring their state identification. This initiative aims to help individuals reenter society by providing access to a driver’s license or state ID, critical tools for securing employment, housing, and full participation in daily life.
Beyond just transportation, this partnership directly supports returning citizens’ constitutional right to vote. By ensuring that they can obtain identification, including driver’s licenses and state IDs, these citizens can more easily register to vote, ensuring their participation in Michigan’s elections. Secretary Benson has long championed voter rights, particularly for those who have served their sentences, working to remove barriers to civic engagement and encourage reintegration into the community.
Since the partnership’s inception, over 20,000 returning citizens have been able to obtain critical identification, and nearly 6,000 in 2023 alone. This initiative not only facilitates smoother reentry into the workforce, but also strengthens Michigan’s democracy by empowering returning citizens to fully exercise their rights.