WBAL.com

The Maryland Senate has approved a bill that would require state officials give inmates a government identification card, once they leave prison.

The Senate approved the bill 32-15 today.

Under the legislation, inmates could use the card as a secondary identification needed to get a driver’s license.

Supporters say the bill would allow ex-inmates to get other government benefits, and help them establish their lives once released from prison.

Baltimore and Harford County Republican Senator Andy Harris told his colleagues today the bill has good intentions, but it allows ex-inmates who are illegal immigrants to remain in the U.S.

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Harris said that the Department of Public Safety and Corrections does not track the number of inmates who are living in the U.S. illegally.

Earlier this week, the Senate rejected Harris’ amendments that would have forced prison officials to inquire about an inmate’s immigration status before issuing the card.