WILKES-BARRE — With federal REAL ID enforcement just days away, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll this week joined officials from the Williamsport Airport, and the American Automobile Association (AAA), to urge Pennsylvanians to make sure they’re prepared for upcoming air travel.
Getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but beginning next Wednesday, May 7, travelers need to present a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight, and enter a military base or other federal facilities that require ID at the door.
More than 2.8 million Pennsylvanians have gotten a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card since they became available in the state in 2019.
“People look forward to traveling with friends and family on vacation or business,” said Secretary Carroll. “But after next Wednesday, if you don’t have a REAL ID or a passport, you won’t be permitted to board a domestic flight. We’re strongly encouraging everyone to plan ahead for your travel needs before you arrive at the airport, especially if you already have flights planned for the summer.”
PennDOT is hosting a series of REAL ID Days at driver license centers across the commonwealth, when centers are typically closed.
Customers at most sites experienced an average wait time of less than 10 minutes. The next REAL ID Day event will take place on Monday.
A passport is still needed for international travel.
“We don’t want anyone with current or future travel plans to be blindsided when they arrive at the airport and find out they and their families aren’t allowed to fly,” said Nina Waskevich, vice president, brand and membership, AAA North.
Federal REAL ID regulations require that PennDOT must verify the following documents:
• Proof of Identity: examples include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised/embossed seal, or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport.
• Proof of Social Security Number: examples include a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub.
• Two Proofs of Current, Physical PA Address: examples include a current, unexpired PA driver’s license or identification card, vehicle registration, or a utility bill with the same name and address.
• Proof of all Legal Name Changes: examples include certified marriage certificate(s) issued by the County Court for each marriage, court order(s) approving a change in legal name, or adoption decree issued by your county’s family court.
Note: If current name is the same as what is reflected on the proof of identity document (usually birth certificate or passport), proof of legal name change does not need to be shown.
More information about REAL ID document requirements can be found at — pa.gov/REALID.
Meuser cosponsors legislation against organized retail and supply chain crime
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas, this week co-sponsored the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA) — bipartisan legislation aimed at disrupting criminal networks responsible for large-scale theft from retailers, warehouses, and across the U.S. supply chain.
Rep. Meuser said the bill strengthens federal tools to investigate, prosecute and dismantle these organized crime rings, which he said are increasingly targeting stores, truckers, and freight shipments across state lines.
The legislation establishes an Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center within the Department of Homeland Security to streamline coordination among local, state, federal and private-sector partners. It also expands criminal penalties for those involved in large-scale theft and enables prosecutions under existing federal statutes for crimes carried out across state or national borders.
According to the National Retail Federation, retail theft surged 93% between 2019 and 2023, costing businesses over $121 billion last year alone.
At the same time, Rep. Meuser said cargo theft targeting trucks, warehouses and rail lines rose 27% in 2024, threatening economic stability and public safety.
Rep. Meuser noted that retail crime and freight theft are no longer isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of organized criminal activity. He said this legislation is in line with the Trump Administration’s efforts to restore and promote public safety.
“Organized retail crime is more than just shoplifting — it’s a growing, coordinated threat to our economy, our businesses, and the safety of our communities,” said Rep. Meuser. “These criminal networks are stealing from retailers and supply chains across state lines, then reselling the goods to finance other illicit activity. This legislation will equip law enforcement with the tools they need to crack down on offenders, dismantle these networks, and better protect consumers and small businesses.”
The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
Rep. Walsh to host seminar on financial exploitation of seniors
Rep. Jamie Walsh, R-Ross Township, invites residents of the 117th District to a free seminar on the financial exploitation of seniors on Friday, May 16, at noon, at the Meadows Manor Community Room, 200 Lake St., Dallas.
Doors will open at 10:30 a.m., with a complimentary lunch provided at 11:30 a.m.
David Shallcross, director of senior protection at the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, will lead an eye-opening presentation on spotting and preventing financial exploitation among older adults.
“Fraudsters and scammers are constantly changing their tactics to prey upon unsuspecting victims,” said Rep. Walsh. “Awareness is our best defense against financial exploitation. I am happy to offer this free seminar to help my constituents learn the red flags and protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to financial fraud schemes.”
Registration is required. Call Rep. Walsh’s Dallas office at 570-675-6000 for information or to reserve a seat.