By KRWG News
New Mexico – New Mexico's senators are asking the Department of Homeland Security to tell New Mexicans whether or not they will need passports on domestic flights after the New Year.
Democrats Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall say the 2005 REAL ID Act requires New Mexico to tighten drivers' license requirements.
Bingaman and Udall say constituents are worried they will need passports to fly within the country starting Jan. 1.
The senators wrote a letter Monday to Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano. They say if DHS denies New Mexico an extension of the Dec. 31 deadline to comply with the law, the department should reassure travelers about its plans.
Bingaman and Udall say without assurances from DHS that a passport won't be necessary, many people may alter or cancel their travel plans.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.