PASCO, Wash. – It’s been one week since the Real ID law has taken affect across the nation, and travelers at the Tri-Cities Airport are facing a mix of reactions regarding the requirement. While some passengers are prepared with their Real ID, others are questioning its necessity.
Airport Director Buck Taft, says that flyers can still make their way through checkpoints without a REAL ID, but that window will soon close for good.
“For now, TSA is doing kind of a soft rollout where they’ll pull the person aside for additional screening, but you’re allowed to go through eventually,” said Taft. “They’re going to have a hard cutoff… So, it’s very important for everyone to get, you know, a passport, have your military ID or get the REAL ID that you need to fly.”
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, aims to combat terrorism and identity theft. As of last week, all states must comply with the new law. Taft says the airport has received a large number of calls, oftentimes multiple times an hour about the new federally approved ID.
Kevin Thoi, who is traveling to Ohio for a wedding, shared his confusion about the Real ID requirement.
“Personally, I think if you have your ID, you should be able to fly. But again, I’m sure they have their reasons that we just don’t know about,” said Thoi.
On the other hand, Rodney Cooper, traveling back to Panama, said he is simply following the rules.
“It’s not that much of a hassle. (It) cost a few bucks more than a regular driver’s license. But yeah, they said you had to have it to fly so you’d better get it,” Cooper said.
Forms of REAL ID include your passport, Military ID, Enhanced Identification Card, Tribal Issued Photo ID, and Permanant Resident Card.
