Today, Senator Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson), chair of the Senate Transportation Finance and Policy Committee, issued the following statement:

“These are unprecedented times in Minnesota. As we work through this crisis, policymakers will be taking several steps to make things easier for Minnesotans.

“This week, I expect to pass my bill that eases the proof of residency requirements when applying for a REAL ID. Under the legislation, utility bills listing two unrelated individuals could be used for proof of residency, along with high school or college ID cards without a transcript, property tax statements, cell phone bills, and valid hunting and fishing licenses. The bill also removes the requirement that a phone number be on an applicant’s pay stub and raises the time for which documents are valid from 90 days to one year.

“Additionally, President Trump announced yesterday he will be extending the deadline to implement REAL ID. In support of that decision, I will be asking the House and Senate to take up a resolution asking the federal government for a one-year extension until October 2021. In the face of these extraordinary circumstances, I believe this is a necessary action to take.

“I know these are challenging times, but our state is strong. If we work together and support each other, we will move through this.”

Senator Scott Newman, of Hutchinson, represents McLeod, Meeker, Sibley, and Wright counties in the Minnesota Senate. He serves as chair of the Senate Transportation Finance and Policy Committee.