Transportation panel puts off Real ID decision

Hoping for an implementation plan from the federal government, the Transportation Interim Committee put off until November any action on the Real ID Act.

The final rules for the 2005 federal law, which is intended to bolster security of drivers' licenses, have yet to be released. Based on preliminary rules released earlier this year, it could cost the state an estimated $10 million to implement the rule and another $7 million to $8 million in ongoing costs, said Nanette Rolfe, director of the Driver License Division.

If the state doesn't request an extension to Jan. 1, 2010, the state must be in compliance by May 2008. The other option would be to refuse to implement the act, which a few states have already done. Refusing to implement the act would mean Utah drivers' licenses would no longer be valid for purposes such as boarding domestic flights.

Utah is among 12 states that have passed resolutions urging Congress to repeal the act.