House Committee Begins Hearings on Bill to Expand Ohio's Digital ID Program

COLUMBUS—The House Technology and Innovation Committee today began hearings on House Bill 78, legislation to further expand the use of digital ID in Ohio, announced bill sponsor, State Representative Thomas Hall (R- Madison Twp.) Hall is sponsoring the legislation alongside State Representative Joe Miller (D-Amherst).

Key provisions of the bill are as follows: 

• Requires the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to establish a program that provides for the use of a digital ID by Ohio residents, including certain security measures;
• Allows Ohioans to use a digital driver’s license or digital ID with a cell phone, tablet, or other wireless device to prove the person’s identity in lieu of a physical ID card; and
• Permits the Registrar to introduce additional procedures or requirements they deem necessary to ensure the general privacy and security of the data and images exchanged through this program.

“This is an obvious next step to further expand a program to make the lives of Ohioans easier while still maintaining the level of security and protection that our constituents demand,” said Hall during sponsor testimony.

The bill was also amended to prohibit the use of digital ID for voting purposes, upholding election integrity in Ohio.

House Bill 78 awaits further consideration from the House Technology and Innovation Committee.