ST. PAUL – Members of the Minnesota House of Representatives approved legislation that would allow Minnesota to prepare for the implementation of REAL ID. State Representative Tim O’Driscoll, R-Sartell, voted in favor of the measure.
“This is the first step to allow Minnesotans to obtain an ID that ensures they can fly on a commercial airplane or enter certain federal facilities,” said O’Driscoll.
In January, the Department of Homeland Security told Minnesota it had until 2018 to develop REAL ID-compliant licenses in order for residents to board an airplane. Currently Minnesota's licenses do not comply with the federal REAL ID Act.
Minnesota had previously approved a law barring Minnesota's Department of Public Safety (DPS) from even discussing REAL ID compliance with Homeland Security. The measure approved by the House recently would eliminate that ban and allow the process to begin.
“It’s important to begin that process so we can become compliant or receive an extension prior to the current 2018 deadline,” said O’Driscoll. “The Legislature is taking all necessary steps to reach REAL ID conformity and help Minnesotans travel freely or have access to certain military bases and other federal facilities.”
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