MN SF1646

Removes the 2009 prohibition on planning for Real ID implementation and replaces it with a requirement that the commissioner of public safety undertake planning activities to prepare for eventual Real ID compliance.

Requires the commissioner to prepare plans so that, following legislative authorization, the state can begin issuing Real ID-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards no later than October 1, 2016, or a different date authorized by legislation.

Mandates the commissioner submit a report on Real ID planning by April 14, 2016, to legislative committees and the Legislative Commission on Data Practices and Personal Data Privacy; commissioner must also appear before committees upon request to testify on planning progress.

Directs the commissioner to seek an extension from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to allow Minnesota license and passport holders to access military bases and federal facilities while the state completes planning for Real ID implementation.

Specifies that planning activities must address statutory changes, vendor contracts, federal guidance, privacy protections, costs, and alternative licensing models (single-tier or two-tier systems) without adopting rules or implementing changes without specific legislative authorization.