Feds Say They’ll Give State Time to Upgrade IDs for Flights

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Federal officials say they'll give state lawmakers time to boost Minnesota's driver's license so residents can board domestic flights.

Minnesota is one of four states that haven't complied with stronger federal requirements for IDs passed after Sept. 11. It's raised concern that Minnesotans may need an extra form of ID to board a plane as soon as next year.

The Legislature blocked the state from complying with the Real ID Act in 2009. Department of Homeland Security officials told state lawmakers Tuesday that the deadline won't come immediately in 2016.

A final cut-off date will be announced later this year.

But some lawmakers still aren't sold the change is necessary. Sen. Warren Limmer says he doesn't think the federal government will stop Minnesotans from boarding planes.