{ "id": "RS21137", "type": "CRS Report", "typeId": "REPORTS", "number": "RS21137", "active": false, "source": "EveryCRSReport.com", "versions": [ { "source": "EveryCRSReport.com", "id": 103015, "date": "2003-01-07", "retrieved": "2016-05-24T20:00:47.802941", "title": "National Identification Cards: Legal Issues", "summary": "In the wake of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, renewed debate has arisen regarding the\nefficacy and legal implications of a national identification card, a form of identification that would\nbe something more comprehensive than a driver's license, a Social Security card or a passport. Such\ndebate has centered around finding the appropriate balance between maintaining personal freedom\nand protecting national security. Proponents contend that a card using \"biometric\" surveillance\ntechnologies such as electronic retinal scans or fingerprints could help reduce and/or track illegal\nimmigrants or potential terrorists. Conversely, opponents assert that such a card could infringe upon\ncivil liberties with minimal impact on reducing terrorism. This report will briefly summarize the\npolicy arguments related to and legal implications of a national identification card. The report will\nbe updated as developments warrant.", "type": "CRS Report", "typeId": "REPORTS", "active": false, "formats": [ { "format": "PDF", "encoding": null, "url": "http://www.crs.gov/Reports/pdf/RS21137", "sha1": "de5f056442edd461bcad32ca1e4ffbfe243c24bd", "filename": "files/20030107_RS21137_de5f056442edd461bcad32ca1e4ffbfe243c24bd.pdf", "images": null }, { "format": "HTML", "filename": "files/20030107_RS21137_de5f056442edd461bcad32ca1e4ffbfe243c24bd.html" } ], "topics": [] } ], "topics": [ "American Law" ] }