Rep. Mark Hargrove, R-Covington, has introduced a bill to bring Washington state into full compliance with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. House Bill 2176 would require the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) to make changes to standard driver’s licenses and identicards that would comply with federal REAL ID requirements.
Due to the state’s current noncompliance, residents are unable to obtain a visitor’s pass at Joint Base Lewis-McChord or enter certain federal facilities using their driver’s licenses. As of Jan. 22, 2018, federal agencies will not accept a driver’s license or identicard from residents of noncompliant states, which means Washingtonians will not be permitted to board commercial flights.
Hargrove says his bill would prevent that from happening.
“It’s critical we keep Washingtonians safe while also ensuring they can continue to fly domestically,” said Hargrove. “While other proposed REAL ID legislation would burden individuals by requiring them to stand in long lines and purchase new identification, my bill would allow individuals to keep their current licenses and board flights without additional hassle.”
In the 9/11 Commission Report, the 10 members of the independent 9/11 Commission recommended stronger security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards to prevent future terrorist attacks. Under Hargrove’s bill, Washington residents would be required to present certain identification and lawful presence documentation in order to receive a fully compliant license or identicard. Those unable to provide such documentation would still be eligible to receive a driver’s license, but it would not be authorized for federal use.
The 2017 legislative session is scheduled to adjourn April 23.
