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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Paul Anderson (R)

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Harvest update; REAL ID info

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

 

Dear Neighbor,

We are on the home stretch of work on the harvest and yields should be strong in the region after what was a good growing season. One cause for concern is the excessively dry, windy conditions of late are conducive to the spread of fires. The Kerkhoven Fire Dept. recently attended a call to put out flames that had started on a combine, so be careful out there and keep on the lookout.

A number of citizens have corresponded with me recently regarding increased federal identification standards being implemented through new REAL ID law, especially as it pertains to commercial flights.

Here is a quick overview:

In 2005, Congress set nationwide REAL ID standards states must meet with driver’s licenses and identification cards in order for citizens to use them in boarding commercial aircraft or entering certain federal facilities. In 2009, Minnesota joined a number of others by prohibiting compliance with the law – mainly over data privacy concerns.

The first three phases of REAL ID already are being enforced and apply to secured federal facilities, restricted areas and nuclear sites. The fourth and final implementation phase is set to take effect no sooner than Jan. 1, 2016 and the Department of Homeland Security will provide states with 120 days' notice in advance of implementation for flying. Minnesota’s existing Enhanced Drivers’ License and Enhanced Identification Card will be acceptable forms of ID for Minnesotans to fly when the final phase is implemented.

Minnesota has made many improvements to the security of its licenses, but currently cannot complete the final steps to comply with REAL ID requirements because of the state law prohibiting compliance.

This issue is highly likely to be addressed during the upcoming legislative session and, once again, expect data privacy concerns to be at the center of discussions. REAL ID mandates the retention rate of seven years for paper copies and 10 years of source documents. It also requires that states verify an applicant’s date of birth, Social Security number and primary place of residence. Verification also is conducted regarding whether the applicant is lawfully present in the United States.

Many questions remain on this subject and I look forward to finding acceptable solutions. Just remember, regardless of what action is or is not taken to modify state law, the enhanced Minnesota IDs will serve the purpose. Information on obtaining enhanced IDs is at this link.

I will keep you posted as things develop and you can click here to find more on a public FAQ site from the DHS. The objective should be to establish a system which enhances security for citizens of this nation while protecting their personal data.

Sincerely,

Paul