Rep. Eric Burlison of Missouri criticizes the REAL ID mandate, which requires a federally approved identification for domestic air travel and federal facility access, arguing it is an unnecessary burden that does not enhance safety. He points out that the 9/11 terrorists had passports, making state IDs irrelevant to preventing such attacks. Despite the looming deadline for compliance, Burlison states that Missouri has made it easy for residents to comply, though he personally disagrees with the law. The REAL ID Act, initiated in 2005, has faced multiple delays, with the Trump administration enforcing a final deadline of May 7. As implementation nears, many states face challenges with long lines at DMVs and are opening emergency locations to accommodate the demand for appointments.

Rep. Eric Burlison argues that the REAL ID law, which requires a federally compliant ID for certain activities, is an unnecessary burden that does not enhance national security. He believes the measure complicates the lives of U.S. citizens under the guise of security improvement.

Burlison points out that the 9/11 attackers possessed passports, not just state IDs, thus questioning the effectiveness of REAL ID in preventing terrorism. He suggests the law capitalizes on government opportunities to impose additional regulations on citizens.

The REAL ID Act was originally passed in 2005, with implementation delays occurring over the years, the latest being in 2022. However, the Trump administration has set a final deadline for May 7, requiring compliance by that date.

From May 7, a REAL ID will be necessary for domestic flights and certain federal facilities, though a passport can serve as an alternative. The law's enforcement aims to assist in the crackdown on illegal immigration by the Trump administration.

As the deadline approaches, states are struggling with increased demand for REAL IDs, leading to long lines at DMVs and the opening of emergency enrollment centers. This scramble indicates the logistical challenges of meeting the deadline.

The TSA has stated that passengers will need a REAL ID or an equivalent form of ID to fly domestically from May 7, and those noncompliant may face delays or additional security measures.

Rep. Burlison's remarks highlight the ongoing debate over the balance between security measures and personal freedoms, as well as the practical challenges of implementing nationwide identification requirements.