In Senate committee, REAL ID remains a divisive issue

JEFFERSON CITY — Despite a spirited, hourlong discussion Thursday before a Missouri Senate committee, legislators failed to reach a consensus about whether to comply with a federal law that places stricter requirements on forms of personal identification.

The REAL ID Act has been on the books for a dozen years. Most states have brought themselves into or close to compliance with the law, which includes requirements about how long source documents must be retained and prohibitions on the uses of noncompliant forms of ID.

If legislators fail to act, Missourians could face additional hurdles trying to prove their identities. Already, current Missouri drivers' licenses cannot be used as a form of ID when entering military bases. After Jan. 22, 2018, they'll no longer be sufficient to board a domestic flight at an airport.

Opponents have been reluctant to yield to the federal government due to concerns about personal privacy and constitutionality, while supporters say Missouri residents should have the choice to obtain a REAL ID.

Read more: http://www.news-leader.com/story/news/politics/2017/04/06/senate-committee-real-id-remains-divisive-issue/100116874/