Letter to the Editor: Real I.D.

Last week the Herald published an article stating that Real ID will be required by May 7 to access all domestic flights and all federal buidings except the courts.

However, I am informed that "Tennesseans are not required to obtain a REAL ID compliant license or Identification credential. You do NOT need a REAL ID to:

* Drive

* Vote

* Purchase alcohol or cigarettes

* Access hospitals

* Visit the post office

* Access federal courts

* Apply for or receive federal benefits such as social security or veterans’ benefits"

* A passport or passport card will work to identify us in Tennessee for flights, for entrance into federal buildings and the rest.

I view Real ID as a serious invasion of privacy. It comes from a federal law hastily passed in 2005 after the 9/11 attack. It can lead to complete surveillance and financial transaction control over all of us—sadly a goal by some in our country and internationally. The tracking ability, which is part of such digital ID, links our economic, medical and other personal information. It also makes possible a central credit score system, such as they have in China.

Real ID creates a national ID card which is unConstitutional.

I think we need to let our representatives know that we do not want Real ID in Tennessee.

These are my concerns. I wanted to share them with the Herald and its readers.

Sincerely,

Jan Taché