Real ID Act’s reality

According to an article in this paper on May 11, Secretary of State Matt Dunlap is concerned about the Real ID Act, which President Bush has signed into law. Among other things, the act requires that the states verify that anyone who applies for a driver’s license is in the United States legally. Little wonder this would trouble Dunlap and Gov. Baldacci, who issued an Executive Order forbidding Maine state employees from inquiring about the immigration status of people with whom they deal.

Now Maine will have to refuse drivers’ licenses to those illegally in the United States, rather than protecting them. Maine can choose not to comply with the act; but if we do, Maine drivers’ licenses can’t be used for ID for such things as getting on airplanes or into federal buildings.

Dunlap complains that the act will be a burden on applicants and the state. If it means a little more security, I don’t mind spending a few more minutes at BMV. Since the act gives the states three years to comply, Dunlap should have plenty of time if he starts now.

John H. Frecker

Baileyville