(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Next year, people in Illinois could have their own digital driver's license and ID.
The legislation would not eliminate the option of physical identification cards and licenses.
The Secretary of State's Office says new technology allows for more privacy by allowing people to decide what personal information they share via a contactless encrypted data exchange between their device and the reader.
State Representative Kam Buckner is one of the lawmakers supporting the measure.
“Innovation serves as the underpinning of our work to make lives better through better technology. A digital ID is a logical next step when it comes to providing proof that you’re qualified to drive and identifying yourself at stores, banks and doctor’s offices,” he said.
If approved in the General Assembly, Illinois would join 12 other states that already offer digital forms of identification and implementation could occur as early as next year.
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