HARRISBURG (CBS) – The state Senate has passed and sent to the House a bill that would have Pennsylvania join the list of states that are rejecting the federal government’s “Real ID” act.

Erik Arneson, spokesman for Chester Republican Dominic Pileggi, the Senate majority leader, calls “Real ID” a significant threat to privacy rights. For one thing, he says it opens the door to allowing the federal government to collect “biometric” data on individuals.

“Biometric data would include fingerprints and eye scans. It could result in radio frequency ID chips being installed in drivers licenses. It’s just a substantial overreach,” Arneson said.

The federal government has indicated states that do not go along with Real ID will not be eligible for certain funds. However, Arneson says as more states reject Real ID, it is hoped the feds will relent on the funding issue.

The ACLU, which praised the state Senate action, says 15 states have moved to block Real ID. The bill now goes to the House.

Reported by Tony Romeo, KYW Newsradio 1060