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WV HB5551

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

2/16/2026

Primary Sponsor

Laura Kimble

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Requires West Virginia to continue offering non-REAL ID compliant driver's licenses and photo IDs, clearly marked "NOT FOR REAL ID ACT PURPOSES," valid for all state purposes
  • Prohibits collection, storage, or use of biometric identifiers (facial recognition data, fingerprints, iris scans, voiceprints) for non-REAL ID licenses
  • Bars retention of source documents (birth certificates, Social Security cards, utility bills) used to verify identity for non-REAL ID applicants and prohibits sharing data with interstate, federal, or international databases
  • Mandates that applicants be informed verbally and in writing of their right to choose between REAL ID and non-REAL ID licenses, with all promotional materials stating participation is voluntary
  • Requires the state to immediately cease REAL ID compliance if the federal REAL ID Act is repealed or modified to prohibit non-compliant licenses, with an effective date of July 1, 2026

Legislative Description

Protecting State Licensing and ID Act

Motor Vehicles

Last Action

To House Judiciary

2/16/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/16/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available