By Calvin Biesecker
A group of senators on Monday introduced legislation that would repeal an existing law aimed at enhancing the security of states’ drivers licenses in favor of a similar program that would shift more of the financial burden to the federal government, limit the number of databases used in background checks and ensure the privacy and security of individuals’ data.
The Providing for Additional Security in States’ Identification Act of 2009 (PASS ID) would repeal the REAL ID Act, which Congress mandated in 2005. Key changes with PASS ID would limit to two databases that states would be required to search for information about an individual applicant. These databases would be Social Security records and another to determine a legal presence in the United States.
PASS ID would also require the federal government to pay the costs for the states searching the federal databases. In addition, the bill authorizes a grant program that would help states implement the requirements of PASS ID. The bill also requires states to protect the data of drivers license applicants.
PASS ID was introduced by Senators Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii), George Voinovich (R-Ohio), Max Baucus (D-Mont.), Thomas Carper (D-Del.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), and Jon Tester (D- Mont.).
Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, who opposed REAL ID as governor of Arizona, applauded the introduction of PASS ID.
“PASS ID is a cost-effective, commonsense solution that balances critical security requirement with the input and practical needs of state governments,” Napolitano said in a statement. “I am committed to supporting this important bill and it is my hope that Congress will pass it into law as quickly as possible.”
REAL ID requires that additional databases be used when checking a person’s application for a drivers license. However, these databases don’t exist on a national scale. PASS ID instead would establish a pilot project among states to evaluate an electronic system to verify that an applicant for a drivers license does not hold a license in another state.
PASS ID would also require security features be built into the card and that the facilities and persons involved in the issuance of licenses meet certain security standards.