Response from Senator Murray

Dear Mr. Brineman:

Thank you for contacting me about the REAL ID Act, and its inclusion in the 2005
Supplemental Appropriations bill. I appreciate hearing from you on this
important bill.

I am disappointed that the REAL ID Act was included in the final version of the
2005 Supplemental Appropriations bill. As a member of the Conference Committee
on this bill, we were denied the opportunity to debate this specific provision,
or to express our concerns about its inclusion in this important funding
measure.

I spoke about this issue to the Senate during final consideration of the
Supplemental Appropriations bill, and expressed my concerns about the REAL ID
provision, and the majority’s actions. I am very troubled that far-reaching and
unrelated immigration rules got attached to this bill without a vote and without
an opportunity for debate. The REAL ID provision has significant ramifications
for privacy, states’ rights and immigration policy and deserved a more
thoughtful debate.

I am already working with communities and officials across Washington state to
help find a way to implement these new requirements. And I will continue to
push the Administration to provide the funding necessary to make these changes
without piling new burdens onto our already cash-strapped states.

Again, thank you for contacting me about this important legislation. I will keep
your thoughts in mind as the Senate works with the states to address the
implementation of the REAL ID Act.

Sincerely,


Patty Murray
United States Senator