The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has decided to postpone imposing Real ID requirements on New Hampshire citizens.

DHS announced that the government would give New Hampshire until December 31, 2009 to meet the Real ID requirements. The extension means that Granite State residents can continue to use their drivers' licenses for federal purposes.

"I am pleased that the federal government has recognized that the citizens of New Hampshire should not be singled out, and that it will not impose Real ID requirements here beginning in May," Gov. Lynch said in a statement.

Last year, Gov. John Lynch (D-Hopkinton) signed legislation prohibiting New Hampshire from participating in the federal Real ID system.

U.S. Sen. John E. Sununu (R-Waterville Valley) introduced legislation in 2007 that would repeal the Real ID Act.

"I remain committed to fighting REAL ID and reestablishing the procedures for securing the nation's identification that were contained in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004," said Sununu. 

Congressman Paul Hodes (D-Concord) said, "there are legitimate concerns about the effects of this program and many states across the country have refused to participate in Real ID."

Hodes added that he will seek a Congressional investigation into the impact of the Real ID Act.

"Therefore, I am calling on the House Government and Oversight Committee to hold hearings on the impact of Real ID on the states as well as the serious privacy concerns this law raises."