Daines Introduces Legislation to Repeal Real ID

Press Release

Representative Steve Daines today announced his plans to introduce legislation repealing federal mandates for drivers' licenses included in the REAL ID Act of 2005.

Standing alongside Montana Attorney General Tim Fox at the Montana State Capitol this morning, Daines announced the introduction of the "Repeal ID Act of 2014," which works to protect Montana's right to reject the Department of Homeland Security's new ID requirements by fully repealing Section II of the REAL ID Act of 2005.

"Montanans have sent a strong message that they do not want REAL ID. That's why I'm proud to introduce the "Repeal ID Act of 2014,' which ensures that no state has to comply with this federal intrusion and violation of privacy," Daines stated. "Consistent with the work already done by Montana State Legislature, my bill will fully repeal the federal mandates for drivers' licenses included in the REAL ID Act of 2005, ensuring that Montana doesn't have to comply with this top-down federal law. I'm proud to stand with the people in Montana and fight for policies that protect them from the federal government's overreach."

"Through their duly elected legislators, Montanans have made it abundantly clear they do not want the national REAL ID program in Montana," Attorney General Tim Fox said. "It's time to repeal this unnecessary federal overreach and I'm proud to support Congressman Daines in his efforts to do just that."

The introduction of Daines' legislation comes on the heels of the Department of Homeland Security announcing the phased enforcement plan for the REAL ID Act 2005, requiring that by 2016, REAL ID compliant identification cards will be needed to pass through Transportation Security Administration checkpoints at every airport in the nation. Under the Department of Homeland Security guidelines, Montanans would be unable to use their state-issued drivers' licenses as identification for air travel.

By repealing Title II of the REAL ID Act of 2005, which establishes national standards for driver's licenses and non-driver identification cards, Daines' legislation will ensure that the 2007 Montana law banning compliance with REAL ID drivers' license mandates is protected.

In 2007, Montana was the first of several states to pass a law declaring that their state "will not participate" in REAL ID by banning the Montana Motor Vehicle Division from implementing it, and directs the agency to report to the governor any attempts by the Department of Homeland Security to "secure the implementation" of the act.

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