This bill matters because it could make it easier and cheaper for many Americans to obtain a valid travel document for specific international trips. If passed, people would no longer need to budget for the current fee (around $30 for a first-time card or $30 for a renewal if you already have a passport book) when planning to get or renew a passport card.

This could particularly help those in border communities or frequent cruise travelers by removing a financial barrier. If it doesn't become law, the existing fees for passport cards would remain in place, continuing to add a cost for obtaining this form of identification.