(WXYZ) — U.S. Senator Gary Peters introduced legislation that would extend the upcoming deadline for obtaining REAL-ID licenses.
The original deadline has been set for October 1, 2020; the new deadline would be October 1, 2021.
“As we continue to combat the Coronavirus pandemic in Michigan and across the country, we must do everything we can to limit large gatherings that could accelerate the spread of this deadly virus,” Senator Peters said in a press release. “Extending the rapidly approaching REAL ID deadline is a sensible solution that will help protect the health and safety of Michiganders, and give them peace of mind knowing they have more time to get their new IDs.”
“Moving back the Real ID deadline will support public health by reducing the pressure on Americans to make in-person office visits to attain them,” Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said in a press release. “I am grateful to Senator Peters and other legislators showing leadership at this time.”
Beginning October 1, all air travelers over the age of 18 must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification in order to fly.
The legislation was introduced so that Americans will not have to visit state government officers in order to get their REAL-ID licenses.
