As the deadline for the implementation of REAL IDs approaches, there is significant bipartisan frustration over New Jersey's inability to manage the demand for appointments efficiently, leaving many residents struggling to secure a slot. Lawmakers, including Assemblymember Nancy Muñoz and Majority Leader Lou Greenwald, criticize the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) for its lack of preparedness, highlighting the inconvenience faced by constituents who must travel long distances or wait extended periods for appointments. Greenwald proposes legislation to enable online processing of REAL ID applications to alleviate the backlog, contrasting New Jersey's system with more efficient methods in neighboring states like Pennsylvania. The MVC claims to be working tirelessly to issue approximately 23,000 REAL IDs weekly, yet the state remains last in compliance among those surveyed. Challenges are compounded by New Jersey's unique situation, allowing illegal immigrants to obtain status-neutral licenses, affecting the percentage of residents eligible for REAL IDs.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) is facing sharp criticism from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers due to the backlog in processing REAL ID appointments as the federal deadline looms closer.

Assemblymember Nancy Muñoz points out the frustration of constituents unable to secure appointments despite the state's long-standing awareness of the deadline, with some residents needing to travel over an hour only to find no available slots.

Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald emphasizes the inefficiency of the in-person appointment system, advocating for online processing of REAL ID applications to mitigate delays and citing Pennsylvania's successful implementation of such measures.

New Jersey ranks last among states surveyed regarding the proportion of residents who have acquired REAL IDs, a situation exacerbated by the state's policy of issuing status-neutral licenses to illegal immigrants, impacting overall compliance rates.

The MVC asserts its commitment to addressing the issue, noting the issuance of approximately 23,000 REAL IDs weekly and efforts like 'REAL ID Thursdays', yet acknowledges the shared nationwide challenges as the deadline nears.