This bill proposes the repeal of the REAL ID implementation law established in Laws 2017, chapter 76, which governs the issuance and requirements for driver's licenses and identification cards in Minnesota. It mandates the revisor of statutes, in collaboration with relevant departments, to prepare proposed legislation for the 2026 regular legislative session to address the necessary statutory changes resulting from this repeal. The repeal will take effect on July 1, 2026, while the new provisions regarding noncompliant licenses and identification cards will require them to be marked "not for federal identification" and include unique design indicators. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the commissioner to provide information on identity document options and ensure applicants are aware of the limitations of their licenses.

Additionally, the bill introduces various amendments to existing statutes, including new requirements for identification cards issued to individuals with temporary lawful status, which must be marked "temporary" and have an expiration date aligned with the individual's legal stay in the U.S. The commissioner of public safety is required to begin issuing compliant driver's licenses and identification cards by October 1, 2018, and the bill appropriates $3,270,000 for implementation. It also includes provisions for early renewal and establishes security features for tribal identification cards, while ensuring data privacy measures are in place for noncompliant licenses. The bill emphasizes the need for compliance with the REAL ID Act and outlines the responsibilities of the commissioner in relation to any future federal changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 171.01, 171.06, 171.061, 171.07, 171.071, 171.072, 171.12, 171.27, 171.017, 171.04