Montana won't seek Real ID extension; gov promises no penalties Eds: APNewsNow. Will be led.

By MATT GOURAS Associated Press Writer HELENA, Mont. (AP) The state attorney general says Montana will not seek an extension regarding the implementation of a national ID program.

Attorney General Mike McGrath said Friday that state law prohibits Montana officials from complying with Real ID. That also means the state cannot apply for a March 31 extension set by the Department of Homeland Security.

McGrath argued Montana's driver's licenses are already more secure than other states.

Homeland Security has threatened Montana travelers with extra screenings at airports and federal buildings if the state does not apply for the extension and promise to later implement all the Real ID rules.

Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Friday that he has a verbal agreement with the federal agency that Montana will not be penalized for failing to meet the deadline.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 03-21-08 1403CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list