Technology speeds, prevents trip to DMV, invites abuse

Waiting for a license at the Red Willow County Treasurer can take a little time on busy days, but it's nothing like the horror stories we've heard from other Department of Motor Vehicle offices.

That situation should be improving everywhere in the state, however, with the implementation of a new online system Monday.

If you have a routine renewal, need a duplicate or replacement or a state ID card, you can do it online at http://www.dmv.state.ne.us/

There are tradeoffs, however, some more ominous than others.

You won't be able to walk out of the office with a completed card if you complete the process online.

Log in, complete the application, and a new card will be mailed to your home address in a week to 20 days.

And, the license will still cost you $27.75; duplicate or replacement $14.75.

The new system makes it harder for underage drinkers and identity thieves to get away with their crimes as well.

While only a couple of cases have involved minors trying to get fake identification to buy alcohol, there are more than 500 active investigations and have already been 24 felony arrests that have resulted because of new software, including facial recognition, being used by the DMV.

About half of them involved illegal immigration, according to Beverly Neth, department director.

Computerized efficiency is good when it comes to stopping crime, but what about situations that are less cut-and dried than outright violation of the law? How far should the state go in keeping track of its citizens?

Civil libertarians would do well to keep an eye on its use in Nebraska and elsewhere to prevent needless intrusion into our privacy.