As indicated within the draft rules, submit comments today in the following ways:

"You may submit comments, identified by the DHS docket number DHS-2006-0030 that corresponds to this rulemaking, using any one of the following methods: • Federal Rulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 866-466-5370."

A few of the proposed requirements include, as listed on C|Net News:

"• The Real ID cards must include all drivers' home addresses and other personal information printed on the front and in a two-dimensional barcode on the back. The barcode will not be encrypted because of "operational complexity," which means that businesses like bars and banks that require ID would be capable of scanning and recording customers' home addresses.

• A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is under consideration. Homeland Security is asking for input on how the licenses could incorporate "RFID-enabled vicinity chip technology, in addition to" the two-dimensional barcode requirement.

• States must submit a plan of how they'll comply with the Real ID Act by October 7, 2007. If they don't, their residents will not be able to use IDs to board planes or enter federal buildings starting on May 11, 2008.

• Homeland Security is considering standardizing a "unique design or color for Real ID licenses," which would effectively create a uniform national ID card."

As you can see, these would cause dramatic changes in traveling, doing business, as well as accumulating a huge repository of personally identifiable information (PII) susceptible to misuse if the same lack of controls exist that are within other government repositories.

You can also submit your comments at the Privacy Coalition site.

To see Richard Forno's and Bruce Schneier's analysis see the C|Net News article, "National ID card a disaster in the making."

The requirements, if enacted, will significantly impact not only individuals but businesses as well.

If this concerns you, make your opinions heard by submitting a comment.