Westmoreland Review

The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID, required for domestic flights and access to certain federal facilities, is approaching on May 7. This requirement was delayed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal standards established in 2005. In Pennsylvania, this is indicated by a transparent star inside a gold circle.

To obtain a REAL ID, residents must provide additional documents to verify their identity with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). However, it is not mandatory for Pennsylvania residents to have a REAL ID if they choose not to travel domestically or visit specific federal facilities requiring it.

Representative Jill Cooper plans to host an informative seminar on REAL IDs in the coming months. For assistance with obtaining necessary documents such as birth certificates or more information about the application process, constituents are encouraged to contact her offices.

Cooper will join fellow lawmakers in taking the oath of office for the 2025-26 Legislative Session on January 7. The ceremony will be streamed live at noon.

In other news, the Federal Trade Commission has warned against hospice fraud targeting older adults through various communication methods. Scammers falsely offer free services while intending to commit Medicare fraud.

A new state law supported by Representative Cooper eliminates vehicle registration and title fees for certain veterans who meet specific criteria related to their service in the Armed Forces. Veterans can apply for these benefits through designated forms available at Representative Cooper's offices.

For further details or inquiries regarding these topics, constituents can reach out to Representative Cooper's offices directly.