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02/15/2005 Archived Entry: "Ron Paul on HR418"

Ron Paul's address to the U.S. House of Representatives on H.R. 418 -- called the Real ID Act, which he evocatively retitles "A National ID Bill Masquerading as Immigration Reform," is well worth reading. One passage...

"Supporters claim it [the proposed standardized, electronically readable driver's license] is not a national ID because it is voluntary. However, any state that opts out will automatically make non-persons out of its citizens. The citizens of that state will be unable to have any dealings with the federal government because their ID will not be accepted. They will not be able to fly or to take a train. [Not to mention access to such niceties as some courtrooms and legal protections.] In essence, in the eyes of the federal government they will cease to exist. It is absurd to call this voluntary."

HR418 passed the House, despite Paul's efforts, and is now a matter for the Senate. CNet offers a good overview of the measure and its status.