StrictConstruct

Maine is only one of 3 states that have yet to either sign on to the Real ID Act, or sign onto a waiver which would delay the enaction of the law until 2009 - and the decision is likely to lead to inconveniences for Mainers who wish to travel starting on May 11th when the law goes into effect nationally.

The state joins Montana, and South Carolina who are also set to brave the consequences of the decision, while 15 more have also refused to enact it now and signed the waiver. The thinking behind signing the waiver by those states who did is to essentially to both oppose it and avoid the penalty until 2009, though with the signing comes the implication of intent to enact it in 2009. Whether the states which have signed on do so then will be something of interest, and likely to become a more controversial issue as that time approaches.

For all of the state’s shortcomings, with its incredibly high tax burden and stifling policies on economic development, that Maine would take this stand for individual liberty is certainly one of the more redeeming aspects of the current political climate. The legislature knew when it rejected the law that there would be penalties, and the people who called for its rejection knew this as well. They took their stand in the face of all of these things, because they know that freedom is far more valuable than an empty promise of security. And, if only for this moment, Maine is standing up as an example for all others to follow - and living up to its motto, “the way life should be.”

(Photo credit to freefoto.)