| Washington State House of Representatives |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Transportation Committee | |
HB 1289
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Authorizing the issuance of enhanced drivers' licenses and identicards to facilitate crossing the Canadian border.
Sponsors: Representatives Clibborn, Campbell, VanDeWege, Dickerson, Moeller and Morrell; by request of Department of Licensing.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/15/07
Staff: Teresa Berntsen (786-7301).
Background:
The federal Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 mandated that the
Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, develop and
implement a plan to require United States citizens and foreign nationals to present a passport or
other secure document when entering the United States. In April 2005, the Departments of State
and Homeland Security announced the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, which will require
individuals entering or re-entering the United States to present a passport or other acceptable
secure identification. The identification requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel
Initiative will take effect as early as January 1, 2008.
When announcing the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, the Departments of State and
Homeland Security identified the passport as the document of choice for entry or re-entry into the
United States, but acknowledged that certain other documents might be acceptable in lieu of a
passport.
Summary of Bill:
The Department of Licensing (DOL) may enter into a memorandum of understanding with a
federal agency to facilitate border crossing between the state of Washington and British
Columbia. The DOL may enter into an agreement with British Columbia to implement a border
crossing initiative.
The DOL may issue an enhanced driver's license or identicard to an applicant who, in addition to
meeting all other driver's license or identicard requirements, provides the DOL with proof of
United States citizenship, identity, and state residency. The enhanced driver's license or
identicard must include a one-to-many biometric matching system.
The DOL must adopt rules and may set fees for the issuance of enhanced drivers' licenses and
identicards.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.