Bullock reasserts opposition to federal ID rules

HELENA (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock is reasserting his opposition to stringent federal driver's license rules, saying Montana already has increased the security of its licenses and identification cards.

The Democratic governor said in a letter Friday to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson that the Legislature voted unanimously against implementing the REAL ID Act.

Bullock says he has full confidence in the security measures the state has taken outside the 2005 anti-terrorism law.

Bullock is responding to a December notice from Homeland Security officials that Montana is not in compliance with the 2005 law, with the first phase of enforcement to begin Monday.

The enforcement will eventually include restricted access to federal buildings and commercial flights.

Bullock asks Johnson not to penalize the ability of Montanans to use their driver's licenses.