...And Arizona Makes it 20

David Weigel | June 17, 2008

The 20th state, that is, to pass a statute or resolution announcing non-compliance with the REAL ID Act. I've just been told that Gov. Janet Napolitano (D, and a possible Obama running mate) signed off on House Bill 2677. From the Arizona Republic, a little background from when the House sent Napolitano the bill.

State compliance is voluntary, but individuals will be required to carry identification that meets Real ID standards to board commercial flights or enter federal buildings. The program's implementation has already been delayed until the end of 2009.

Napolitano spokeswoman Jeanine L'Ecuyer said whether the governor will sign the bill is essentially a moot point given the lack of movement regarding the program.

"Real ID doesn't happen without the feds paying for it," L'Ecuyer said. "Real ID isn't going anywhere."

Arizona's home to my favorite or second-favorite anti-REAL ID coalition, including, as it does, members of the ACLU, pols from both parties, and anti-RFID activist Katherine Albrecht.