~ your ID for a record ~

Idaho is now requiring personal identification in order to view public records. Ostensibly, this is to deter....what? Misuse of the information? In California, government agencies sometimes hold a driver license in exchange for microfiche but they don't photocopy the identification. I had an experience the other day that falls into the category of ridiculous-gestures-that-have-the- appearance-of-enhancing-security-but-do-nothing. I go into the Federal Courthouse and the screener looks at my driver license before waving me through. I politely ask what he's looking for. The answer? Is my license expired? If so, he'll exclude me from the building. Exactly how does that enhance anyone's security?