I SUPPORT A
Repeal of the
Real ID Act

The REAL ID Act has been criticized for raising concerns about privacy and security. Specifically, concerns include the potential for government tracking of individuals' activities, increased vulnerability to identity theft, and the creation of a national ID-like system without the necessary security measures. Additionally, the Act has been criticized for the cost and administrative burdens it places on states and individuals. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the concerns:

 

Privacy Concerns:

• National Database:

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The Act creates a national database of personal information, potentially making it easier for the government to track individuals' activities and conduct surveillance. 

• Machine-Readable Zone:

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• The requirement for an unencrypted "machine-readable zone" on IDs allows anyone with a barcode reader to easily access personal information, increasing the risk of identity theft. 

• Government Tracking:

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• The Act is seen as a step towards a national ID system, potentially leading to greater government control and surveillance of citizens' lives. 

• Increased Vulnerability to Identity Theft:

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• The centralized database and machine-readable technology could make individuals more vulnerable to identity theft. 

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  Security Concerns:

  • Fake IDs:

    The Act does not prevent the creation of fake IDs, meaning that those who wish to engage in criminal activity would still be able to do so.

  • No Guarantee of Enhanced Security:

    Opponents argue that the Act does not offer any real improvement in national security, as it focuses on ID standardization rather than addressing the root causes of security threats. 

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  Administrative and Cost Concerns:

  • State Implementation Costs:

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• The Act places a financial burden on states to implement the requirements, including upgrading their DMV systems and issuing new cards.

• Higher Fees for Individuals:

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• The costs of implementing the Act may be passed on to individuals in the form of higher DMV fees.

• Bureaucratic Hassles:

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• Individuals may face increased administrative burdens and longer wait times at the DMV to obtain REAL ID-compliant IDs.

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  Other Concerns:

  • Infringement on State Sovereignty:

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• The Act has been criticized for infringing on state sovereignty by mandating specific ID standards.

• Impact on Undocumented Immigrants:

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• The Act may have a negative impact on undocumented immigrants who may not be able to obtain REAL ID-compliant IDs, potentially leading to discrimination.