Maine lawmakers reject bill to stop issuing Real ID cards
May 27—AUGUSTA — Maine lawmakers have rejected a proposal that would have required the state to stop issuing driver's licenses and identification cards known as Real ID that meet strict new federal security standards.
The Senate voted without a roll call and without any discussion Tuesday to reject the bill. It was rejected 109-34 in the House of Representatives last week.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Laurel Libby, R-Auburn, would have repealed the Maine law that allows the secretary of state to issue state IDs that comply with the federal law known as Real ID, which critics say compromises privacy.
It comes as Transportation Safety Administration agents started enforcing the requirements this month by asking all commercial air travelers age 18 and up to show a Real ID or alternative federal identification earlier this month.
The rules have been in the works for 20 years as a way to improve security and were approved in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. They involve a higher level of verification than standard driver's licenses or nondriver identification cards. Travelers can use passports as an alternative to the new driver's license.
At a public hearing last month, Libby and supporters of her bill, LD 160, said the Real ID law represents government overreach and raises concerns about data collection and misuse by the federal government as well as potential breaches.
Secretary of State Shenna Bellows testified against the bill, saying it would make Maine the only state unable to provide its residents with a federally compliant credential, a move that would force residents who want a Real ID to have to apply directly to the federal government.
Standards for a Real ID are consistent across the 50 states and involve a higher level of verification than standard driver's licenses or IDs. To receive a Real ID, an individual must bring proof of identification and citizenship/lawful status, such as a certified birth certificate, two forms proving residency and a Social Security number. Proof of any legal name changes must also be provided, if applicable.
State officials asked the Trump administration to delay enforcement of Real ID requirements this year. While that request was not granted, federal authorities said they planned to phase in the requirement and would initially give people warnings and possibly subject them to additional security screening if they did not provide compliant identification.
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