WASHINGTON—The National Governors Association (NGA) and the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) issued the following statement regarding the introduction of the Identification Security Enhancement Act of 2006:

"Governors and state legislators applaud Hawaii Senator Daniel Akaka and New Hampshire Senator John Sununu for introducing legislation that brings attention to the federal Real ID Act, which creates national standards for issuing state driver's licenses and identification cards. States are committed to protecting our citizens and improving the integrity and security of their driver's license systems; however, it is vitally important for Congress and the Administration to understand the substantial cost and operational challenges posed by Real ID."

"Earlier this year, NGA and NCSL estimated Real ID will cost states more than $11 billion over five years. The study also found that a May 11, 2008, deadline and no regulatory guidance from the Department of Homeland Security make state compliance with the act impossible. To facilitate a more reasonable approach, the groups offered several recommendations including extending the statutory deadline, providing additional federal funds to cover the cost of compliance and recognizing state innovations that meet the objectives of Real ID."

"NGA and NCSL remain eager to work with Congress and the Administration to ease the impact of Real ID and strive for a solution that will ensure the act is implemented in a cost-effective and feasible manner with maximum safety and minimum inconvenience for all Americans."

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NGA, founded in 1908, is the instrument through which the nation's governors collectively influence the development and implementation of national policy and apply creative leadership to state issues. Its members are the governors of the 50 states, three territories and two commonwealths. The NGA Center for Best Practices, the nation's leading authority on state innovation, helps governors and their policy advisors develop and implement effective solutions to governance and policy challenges facing them in their states. The Center provides tailored technical assistance, tracks and evaluates state innovations and best practices, and helps governors and their staffs develop cutting-edge solutions to stay ahead of problems. For more information about NGA and the Center for Best Practices, please visit www.nga.org.

The National Conference of State Legislatures is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system. For more information, visit www.ncsl.org.