Senate Approves Legislation to Tighten Identification Requirements

Legislation will require legal presence to obtain Oregon driver’s license.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore.) - Earlier today the Oregon Senate approved SB 1080, legislation that will help prevent identity fraud in Oregon by tightening the requirements to receive Oregon driver’s licenses and identification.

SB 1080 will require the Department of Motor Vehicles to verify social security numbers with the U.S. Social Security Administration before issuing an Oregon driver’s license, identification card, or driver’s permit.

"The lax standard of driver’s licensing in Oregon has made our state a target for criminal organizations and more vulnerable to identity fraud," said Sen. Laurie Monnes Anderson (D-Gresham). "We took a stand for high standards for state documentation today."

After holding several public hearings, the Senate Committee on Transportation introduced SB 1080. It builds on the executive order issued by Governor Kulongoski this fall.

Executive Order 07-22 tightens requirements for proving identity prior to issuance and required social security numbers to obtain Oregon identification. SB 1080 codifies the executive order and addresses some of the technical issues raised by the Executive Order.

Notably, SB 1080 provides an ombudsman service for individuals who are legally present in Oregon, but unable to provide appropriate documentation, like a social security number or birth certificate.

"SB 1080 helps to mitigate the red tape and inconveniences that would otherwise impact Oregonians under the current executive order," said Sen. Rick Metsger (D-Welches), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, "We cannot ignore the needs of the public, whose rights and privileges would be diminished without this legislation."

In addition to the requirement of social security numbers, the legislation stipulates that a license issued to a person who is not a citizen or permanent legal resident is only valid until the date that they are no longer authorized to stay in the United States, or until one year from the issuance of the license.

"Respect for the rule of law is the foundation of our government," said Sen. Joanne Verger (D-District 5), a member of the Transportation Committee, "These conditions are common sense requirements that will protect the public safety and security of our neighborhoods."

SB 1080 now moves to the House for consideration.