BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker is planning to file legislation he says will bring Massachusetts closer in line with federal requirements on driver’s licenses and identification cards.
The federal REAL ID Act sets minimum standards that states must meet when issuing licenses and resident identification cards, including a requirement that states verify citizenship and update security standards.
Last October the Department of Homeland Security granted Massachusetts a year extension to meet the law.
Identifications that don’t meet the law’s requirements make it harder for individuals to gain access to some federal facilities. It will also be harder to board domestic flights, once enforcement of that part of the law takes effect.
Baker said if the bill is approved, those applying for new driver’s license and Massachusetts identification cards will need to meet REAL ID standards.
“We are committed to working with the legislature and our federal partners to provide both greater security and customer choice for our credential holders,” said Governor Baker. “As new standards take effect in the coming years, this legislation will allow us to meet the standards mandated by the federal government so that our citizens will be able to enter federal buildings and board domestic flights.”
The model to be proposed in the legislation offers current license or ID card holders with valid social security numbers the option to renew their existing credential or apply for a REAL ID.
