In a move that has been expected for weeks, the State Senate has endorsed a measure that would prohibit New Hampshire from taking part in the federal identification card system known as Real ID.
New Hampshire Public Radio's Dan Gorenstein reports.
Over the past two years some of the Legislature's most passionate debates have come over Real ID.
The controversial program would require states to tighten standards around issuing identification cards.
The Real ID Act also stipulates that state DMVs make their databases of personal information available nationwide.
Supporters applaud the concept, arguing it would make it more difficult for terrorists to worm their way into society.
In a post September 11th world, Senator Peter Burling acknowledged national security concerns must be addressed.
But he told his senate colleagues he believes a better solution exists.
T.5
1:18 the reasons for passing this bill range over a spectrum of technological and policy issues. It is clear that Real ID continues to be an idea that the federal government has put forward, but not clearly thought out.
Some of the concerns critics have include identity theft and the cost to states, estimated to be in the billions.
But for many, fear drove their opposition.
Fear that the federal government would require citizens to carry 'papers' and track their movements drove their opposition.
The Department of Homeland Security, which has oversight over the program, has said people without a Real ID compliant card won't be able to enter federal buildings or board airplanes.
Senator Bob Clegg, a Real ID supporter, says in an ironic twist barring the system could bring about people's worst nightmares.
T.6
2:45 we've known for a long time the alternative is the true papers, which is a government issued passport that people are going to have to carry. But that is the decision people have made.
And it's a decision states across the country are making.
Both Montana and Washington State have already adopted anti-Real ID measures.
And more than 30 states have considered similar legislation.
Jim Harper with the Libertarian Cato Institute says despite the groundswell of state opposition, Congress is still trying to push Real ID through.
:28 the immigration reform legislation that is being debated in the senate this week...includes many provisions that require Real ID. Indeed, Real ID may be required to get a job in the United States if some of the provisions in immigration reform stay in.
The Department of Homeland Security could not be reached for comment for this story.
The New Hampshire legislation now heads to a conference committee.
The Senate attached an unrelated amendment forcing the two legislative chambers to reach a compromise.
Governor Lynch says he looks forward to signing the bill.
For NHPR News, I'm DG.
