[independentmind]

Any chance that Felton is from a district with a lot of high-tech companies. They are the ones who are really pushing this.

[Mark Felton]

I didn't mention that this was sponsored by a REPUBLICAN as a means of selling the idea. It is a despicable idea. The Republican party is a party of bourgoisie socialists (modern conservatives if you like).

Besides where I'm from we live off of NASA contracts.

[Mark Felton]

This is where the companies pushing the bill get their quick pay-off.

--- excerpt ---

SEC. 5. INNOVATIVE USES PILOT PROGRAM.

(a) IN GENERAL- The National Science Foundation may make grants to States for the implementation of programs that utilize computer chips embedded in drivers' licenses and identification cards (as such terms are defined in section 165 of title 23, United States Code) for innovative uses that enhance government services.

(b) INNOVATIVE USES- The innovative uses referred to in subsection (a) may include the issuance of food stamps, voter registration, and other digital government applications that streamline and simplify State services to residents, including uses authorized under the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (15 U.S.C. 7001 et seq.).

(c) FEDERAL SHARE- The Federal share of the cost of activities funded using amounts from a grant received under this section shall not exceed 50 percent.

(d) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There is authorized to be appropriated for making grants under this section $15,000,000. Such sums shall remain available until expended.