Real ID critics blast Collins

2007-07-26

Source: Portland Press Herald

A state official and civil liberties advocates Wednesday criticized Sen. Susan Collins for backing a proposal to help fund controversial changes to state driver's licenses.

The Maine Civil Liberties Union and Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap said Collins is off base in her support for an amendment that would provide $300 million to help fund changes under the federal Real ID program.

Collins, R-Maine, co-sponsored the proposal Wednesday, months after lawmakers in Maine passed a resolution prohibiting the use of state funds for the program.

"Her home state of Maine has rejected it loud and clear," said Shenna Bellows, executive director of the Maine Civil Liberties Union.

The organization is lobbying lawmakers to repeal the 2005 Real ID Act, which establishes federal standards and databases for driver's licenses.

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