The National Governors Association (NGA) and the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) issued the following statement regarding the introduction of the Identification Security Enhancement Act of 2006:

"Governors and state legislators applaud Hawaii Senator Daniel Akaka and New Hampshire Senator John Sununu for introducing legislation that brings attention to the federal Real ID Act, which creates national standards for issuing state driver's licenses and identification cards. States are committed to protecting our citizens and improving the integrity and security of their driver's license systems; however, it is vitally important for Congress and the Administration to understand the substantial cost and operational challenges posed by Real ID."

"Earlier this year, NGA and NCSL estimated Real ID will cost states more than $11 billion over five years. The study also found that a May 11, 2008, deadline and no regulatory guidance from the Department of Homeland Security make state compliance with the act impossible. To facilitate a more reasonable approach, the groups offered several recommendations including extending the statutory deadline, providing additional federal funds to cover the cost of compliance and recognizing state innovations that meet the objectives of Real ID."

"NGA and NCSL remain eager to work with Congress and the Administration to ease the impact of Real ID and strive for a solution that will ensure the act is implemented in a cost-effective and feasible manner with maximum safety and minimum inconvenience for all Americans."

KW