Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Carlos A. Giménez, Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, recently chaired a hearing on the implementation of the REAL ID Act of 2005. The hearing, titled "Identity Management Innovation: Looking Beyond Real ID," focused on the status and challenges of identity management, specifically regarding the REAL ID Act.
The REAL ID Act was enacted in response to the events of September 11th, with the aim of establishing security standards for driver licenses and identification cards. The goal was to prevent fraudulent obtaining of such documents, which could be used for nefarious purposes. However, after 18 years since its passage, only 52 percent of the American population possesses a driver's license that is REAL ID-compliant.
Chairman Giménez expressed concern about the upcoming deadline of May 7, 2025, when individuals without a REAL ID will not be able to fly within the United States, unless they have an alternative form of approved government identification. He warned that this could lead to "utter mayhem" at airports.
During the hearing, witnesses from various organizations, including the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, Better Identity Coalition, IDEMIA, and the American Civil Liberties Union, provided insights and expertise on identity management. Chairman Giménez emphasized the need for a whole-of-government approach and leadership from the highest levels to address the challenges of identity theft and fraud.
He highlighted the importance of devaluing stolen identity data and exploring new ways to prove one's identity, such as digital driver's licenses. The chairman also acknowledged the concerns of the American people regarding privacy and civil liberties, particularly when it comes to the collection of biometric data.
Chairman Giménez stated, "The American people deserve a robust discussion about the timeline of events and how it is that we landed here—18 years after the passage of the REAL ID Act—with even greater challenges than we had before." He expressed his eagerness to hear the solutions offered by the panel of experts present at the hearing.
As the only Cuban-born member of the 118th Congress, Congressman Carlos Giménez represents Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the Homeland Security Committee, and the Select Committee on China.
The hearing was live-streamed on YouTube and the Committee's website, allowing the public to engage in the important discussion on identity management and the implementation of the REAL ID Act.
To learn more, click on this link: https://gimenez.house.gov/2023/12/chairman-carlos-gimenez-questions-witnesses-on-implementation-of-real-id-act
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