SPRINGFIELD – The state of Illinois now has until January of 2018 to get into compliance with federal identification standards. That’s the latest in the back-and-forth between the state and the federal government over the controversial REAL ID Act.
Obama's Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson announced the new deadline for Illinois citizens. If the state again fails to meet the REAL ID standards by January 1, 2018, then Illinois air travelers will need to present an alternative form of identification acceptable to the Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, in order to board a commercial domestic flight. Illinois Secretary of State Spokesman Henry Haupt says that means Illinois air travelers can breath easy when wanting to board a domestic flight.
However, Haupt says there may be identification issues at some federal buildings, though he says some have indicated they will still accept the current Illinois driver’s license and identification card. Meanwhile DHS says states not in compliance are strongly encouraged to meet the requirements of the law, something the Illinois Secretary of State’s office estimates will cost taxpayers upwards to $60 million over several years.
Source: INN
