Pennsylvania House Bill HB1243

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/24/23
• Refer: 5/24/23
• Refer: 10/30/23
• Report Pass: 10/31/23
• Engrossed: 11/13/23
• Refer: 11/21/23
• Refer: 12/13/23

Caption

In licensing of drivers, providing for application for REAL ID.

Impact

If enacted, HB1243 will enhance the process of obtaining a REAL ID in Pennsylvania, complying with federal standards that aim to improve security and verification methods for state-issued identification. The proposed bill will facilitate easier access to REAL IDs by permitting a broader range of acceptable documentation for Social Security verification. This change is expected to positively impact residents seeking to obtain or renew their driver’s licenses or identification cards, ensuring that they can meet federal requirements without unnecessary hurdles.

Summary

House Bill 1243 aims to amend Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes regarding the licensing of drivers, specifically addressing the application for a REAL ID. This bill introduces provisions for the verification of Social Security numbers by the Department of Transportation, allowing various forms of documentation to fulfill the requirements established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. The intent of this legislation is to streamline the application process for REAL IDs, which have become increasingly important for identification purposes, especially in light of federal regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1243 appears largely supportive, particularly from legislators who recognize the necessity of aligning state laws with federal standards. There is a general consensus among proponents that simplifying the application process will benefit residents and enhance state compliance with the REAL ID Act. However, the discussions surrounding the bill might evoke concerns regarding privacy and security measures related to the handling of sensitive information, although no major contention has been noted in the legislative transcripts.

Contention

While the bill seems to promote a unified approach to identity verification, critics may argue about potential privacy implications and the administrative burden that could arise in verifying the various forms of documentation. Despite these concerns, overall debate has been largely centered on ensuring that Pennsylvania residents can effectively and efficiently obtain REAL IDs, rather than substantial opposition to the core tenets of the bill itself.