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Bill

Bill

LC 910

Declaring MT noncompliance with REAL ID Act

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill declaring noncompliance with federal REAL ID Act, potentially restricting residents' federal building/flight access to oppose national ID standards.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 910

Legislative bill overview

LC 910 would declare Montana's noncompliance with the federal REAL ID Act, a 2005 law establishing security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification documents. The bill appears designed to formally assert Montana's position against federal identification requirements, though it died in the legislative drafting process before reaching a full debate or vote.

Why is this important

REAL ID compliance affects Montana residents' ability to use state IDs for federal purposes like air travel and federal building access. States that don't comply may face restrictions on these activities, potentially inconveniencing residents while making a political statement about federal overreach concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Practical consequences: Noncompliance could restrict Montana residents' access to federal facilities and domestic flights, shifting burden to citizens rather than the state
  • Federal enforcement: The bill's effectiveness depends on whether Montana can sustainably resist federal pressure without facing significant penalties or losing federal highway funding
  • Underlying privacy concerns: Supporters may cite data security and surveillance worries, while opponents question whether symbolic noncompliance addresses actual privacy protections

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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