Senator Sacchieri Files Resolution to Reaffirm Oklahomans’ Right to Opt Out of REAL ID

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Sacchieri today filed Senate Resolution 18 (SR18), reaffirming Oklahomans’ right to opt out of the federal REAL ID program under the principles of federalism protected by the Tenth Amendment. The resolution urges the state to ensure a meaningful choice between REAL ID-compliant and noncompliant identification options, particularly by safeguarding personal and biometric data from unwarranted federal access.

SR18 raises concerns over the collection and retention of sensitive biometric information — such as facial recognition data — required for REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. Although Oklahoma offers both compliant and noncompliant IDs, the resolution notes that the state currently collects, stores, and shares personal data in the same way for both, creating what it calls a “distinction without a difference.”

“Sixty percent of Oklahomans have declined to participate in the federal REAL ID system,” said Senator Sacchieri. “Senate Resolution 18 is about protecting Oklahomans’ privacy and preserving their freedom to choose. We affirm our citizens’ right to opt out of the federal REAL ID system, and we must also ensure their personal information remains secure. This resolution calls for a real, uncoerced choice — without unnecessary exposure of private data.”

The resolution calls on the state to continue offering both REAL ID-compliant and noncompliant forms of identification. It further urges the state to prohibit the sharing of personally identifiable information — including biometric data — collected from noncompliant ID holders, unless such sharing is authorized by judicial oversight. SR18 emphasizes the importance of preventing coerced compliance with a national identity system and upholding Oklahomans’ constitutional rights.

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For more information, contact: 405-521-5522 or email at Kendal.sacchieri@oksenate.gov