Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele and County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb Sr. finalized the plan for Milwaukee County to distribute an additional 500 birth records for voting and 250 birth records for job applications through the Free Birth Certificate Program Thursday.
After the County Board passed the resolution in July, Abele signed the final authorization for continuation of the program.
"As a County, we need to be making it easier, not harder, for people to better their lives," said Abele. "Whether it's making your voice heard in the voting booth or being able to secure a job, a fee shouldn't be what's standing in your way. I'm proud to expand this program, and I appreciate Chairman Lipscomb's leadership on this issue. I'm happy to work with Chairman Lipscomb and the County Board to always look for ways we can empower our residents."
Residents typically are required to pay $20 to the Register of Deeds for a copy of their birth certificate.
The Free Birth Certificates Program began in 2012 in order to assist residents in obtaining birth records so they can in turn apply for jobs and obtain photo IDs for voting. The Register of Deeds estimates that the 750 additional birth certificates will continue the program until the end of 2018.
To find out more about the program and receive your free birth certificate, click here.
