9/6/06-An effort in the Legislature to prohibit the use of radio-frequency identification devices in driver’s licenses has died. The devices aren’t used by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, but they are legal.
Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, SB433 failed to receive a final vote on the Assembly floor prior to the end of the legislative session Aug. 31. The Senate previously approved it.
Radio-frequency identification devices, or RFID’s, are tiny chips that provide information by emitting radio signals. The devices are used in a variety of ways, including keeping tabs on store inventories, providing access to buildings and assessing toll-road fees.
The bill would have barred the California DMV from issuing, renewing, duplicating or replacing a driver’s license or identification card if it uses “remotely readable radio waves” to transmit personal information or if personal information stored on the card could be read remotely.

8/29/06-A bill awaiting a vote on the floor of the Assembly would prohibit the use of radio-frequency identification devices in driver’s licenses. The devices aren’t used by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles but they are legal.
Radio-frequency identification devices, or RFID’s, are tiny chips that provide information by emitting radio signals. The devices are used in a variety of ways, including keeping tabs on store inventories, providing access to buildings and assessing toll-road fees.
Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, SB433 would bar the California DMV from issuing, renewing, duplicating or replacing a driver’s license or identification card if it uses “remotely readable radio waves” to transmit personal information or if personal information stored on the card could be read remotely.
The Assembly Transportation Committee forwarded the measure to the chamber floor. If it gains approval there, it would head back to the Senate for final approval before moving to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk.
All legislative action must be wrapped up by the close of the regular session Thursday, Aug. 31. For bill status, call (916) 651-4120.

7/12/06-The Senate Transportation Committee approved a bill that would prohibit the use of radio-frequency identification devices in driver’s licenses. The devices aren’t used by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles but they are legal.
Radio-frequency identification devices, or RFID’s, are tiny chips that provide information by emitting radio signals. The devices are used in a variety of ways, including keeping tabs on store inventories, providing access to buildings and assessing toll-road fees.
Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, SB433 would bar the California DMV from issuing, renewing, duplicating or replacing a driver’s license or identification card if it uses “remotely readable radio waves” to transmit personal information or if personal information stored on the card could be read remotely.
The bill is awaiting a vote on the Senate floor. If it gains approval there, it would head back to the Assembly for final approval before moving to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk.
For bill status, call (916) 651-4120.