Costly ID Renewal Fee Threatens to Block Wisconsin Voter

This was the second time 56-year-old Dana S. needed to update her Wisconsin driver’s license. This was also the second time she couldn’t afford to do so. 

Several years ago, Dana moved to Wisconsin and needed to update her license. The process would have been relatively straightforward had she not misplaced her birth certificate. 

To update her license, Dana would first need a new copy of her birth certificate, which she couldn’t afford to pay for. Luckily, Dana learned about VoteRiders’ free voter ID services at a community resource fair at the MLK Heritage Health Center in Milwaukee. Dana reached out for assistance and a VoteRiders team member successfully requested and covered the cost of her new birth certificate and paid the DMV fee for her updated ID. 

Years later, Dana found herself in a very similar situation — except now she was temporarily residing at the Salvation Army Emergency Lodge. This time around, Dana needed an updated Wisconsin ID to apply for permanent housing as well as Social Security and disability benefits. But with no income, she couldn’t afford the fee. 

Fortunately, VoteRiders is a partner and frequent visitor to the Milwaukee Salvation Army Emergency Lodge. One day, Dana spotted a VoteRiders flier announcing an upcoming Voter ID Assistance Clinic. The flier explained that VoteRiders staff and trained volunteers would be on-site to provide one-on-one ID assistance to voters in need. 

“I was like, ‘Oh, great!’” Dana exclaimed. A few days later, Dana met VoteRiders’ Wisconsin Coordinator, Jake Spence. “Jake was super friendly and encouraging,” she said. 

Jake took Dana’s information, scheduled a DMV appointment for her, and arranged a free ride to take her to and from her local DMV office. To ensure everything went smoothly, Jake accompanied Dana to her DMV appointment and helped her fill out the required paperwork. Once the paperwork was signed and completed, Jake covered the cost of Dana’s updated ID. 

“VoteRiders’ is so needed because there are so many people out here financially struggling,” Dana said. “Even with jobs, people are still struggling. This is a major blessing and I’m thankful and grateful for it.“

Before Dana left, Jake made sure she was also registered to vote since a photo ID is required to vote in person in Wisconsin, and a copy of an accepted identification is required the first time you request an absentee ballot. 

“Several years ago, people risked their lives to give us the freedom to vote,” Dana shared. “Voting is so vital. One voice, with a collective of voices, can make a major difference. It takes a village to make a difference.”

If you or someone you know is looking for ID information or assistance, visit our website at VoteRiders.org/help to learn more about how we can help.

Erin Carden is VoteRiders’ Digital Communications Coordinator.

July 12, 2024.