Waukesha Navigator

Community Ideas

Got an idea to improve services in Waukesha County? Submit it and the AI will analyze it against our database of 119 organizations, demand data, and funding opportunities.

FEATURED PROPOSAL9/10

Jail-Based ID Program for Waukesha County

Half of people leaving county jails lack a valid state ID. Without ID, they can't access employment, housing, banking, or benefits. 21 states have enacted ID assistance laws. Wisconsin's WI 301.286 covers state prisons but NOT county jails. Waukesha County has no jail-based ID program.

Proposal: Start with a Sheriff + WI DOT MOU (no legislation needed). Begin with sentenced inmates with known release dates. Track IDs issued. Expand. Cost: $28/ID vs. $25,000+/year of re-incarceration.

Partners needed

Sheriff's Office, WI DOT, Legal Action of WI, Vital Records

Funding

Second Chance Act, DOL RESTART, DOJ/DOL joint ($155M)

Based on research of 8 national models including Cook County (IL), San Diego (CA), Virginia HB 2221, and Massachusetts DOC.