real ID act

[Betsy]

Dana brought up the "real ID" legislation which is for the most part, a done deal taking effect in three years. (see: http://www.bodieslikeours.org/forums/showthread.php?p=7661#post7661)

It something that hasn't been in the news a whole lot, and particularly on teevee news as it is complex and I suspect a big issue for people to get their heads around.

Here is an easy to understand FAQ on CNET in case you are wondering what it all means:

http://news.com.com/FAQ+How+Real+ID+will+affect+you/2100-1028_3-5697111.html

Here is a bill summary of the house version (with all the technicalities) from the Thomas Register:
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?
d109:HR00418:@<hidden>@<hidden>@<hidden>&summ2=m&

The full page with the full house approved version etc is at http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:h.r.00418:

I didn't search for the Senate version as it was only approved with the military spending bill last night or yesterday.

[Dana Gold]

Americans would need an authentic copy of their birth certificate to apply for a new driver's license or renew an old one. The certificates must be verified at the counter by a Department of Motor Vehicles agent, along with other identification, such as Social Security numbers and utility bills. Governors, legislatures and officials in motor vehicle departments oppose the act, saying it would lead to agonizingly long lines at DMV offices.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/05/10/AR2005051001403.html

:thinking2