As with many other databases created for limited purposes. the temptation for the government to use the ID card and underlying databases for other purposes will be compelling. If implemented. the proposal to establish an ID card/drivers license for work authorization and identity purposes would require the creation of a massive and reliable federal database of underlying documents (i.e.. social security numbers. birth certificates. passports). Such a database does not currently exist. and to create one would cost billions of dollars and still be vulnerable to fraud and error. (See GAO Report to Congressional Committees. "Immigration Control: A New Role for the Social Security Card." March 1998). The ID card pilot program fails to address the problem of underlying documents being fraudulent and inaccurate. The proposed system will not eliminate document fraud since there is no foolproof method of verifying identity and work authorization even with some form of biometric identification.
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Immigration