Lawmakers spar over REAL ID extension

Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle traded jabs this week over a controversial Department of Homeland Security program some have likened to an attempt to create a national ID card.

The 2005 REAL ID Act established rigid standards for states issuing digitized licenses and identity cards, but many federal and state officials have complained the law isn't realistic and constitutes an unfunded mandate. At least 24 state legislatures have voted to reject its requirements. The law was set to take effect May 11, but Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano has indicated recently she plans to delay the deadline for states to comply until at least January 2013. House Republicans wrote to Napolitano this week expressing their displeasure at the delay.