MARCH 3, 2006

Government Technology magazine has designated Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land as one of its "Top 25 doers, dreamers and drivers" for 2005, an honor reserved for those who redefine and advance technology’s role in government and society, according to the publication’s March cover story.

The magazine praises Land for "taking a leadership role" in the implementation of the Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005. The Act places new requirements on state driver licensing. The magazine cites her proposal to create a dual-purpose driver’s license, which would comply with the Real ID Act and also serve as a passport for travel in the Western Hemisphere.

Government Technology described the task of complying with the Act as "onerous" but said Land is "charging ahead" nonetheless, working with the Department of Homeland Security and communicating information about upcoming changes to Michigan residents.

"The effective use of technology can make our lives easier and our communities safer," Land said. "Implementing the Real ID Act is a challenge for the states and Michigan is no exception, but we are well on our way to getting the job done. That’s good news for our residents."

Land joins governors from Arkansas and Maine, as well as several other government officials, in receiving the honor. The magazine also recognized George Boersma, director of Technology Partnerships for the Michigan Department of Information Technology.

"Governments must help build connected and intelligent communities that form a foundation for the imagination age," said Government Technology Editor Steve Towns. "Members of our 2005 Top 25 are laying the groundwork."

Government Technology is "the only award-winning magazine on the market that focuses solely on the application of information technology in the state and local government markets," according to its Web site.

It was established in 1987 and is published in Folsom, Calif., with readership of more than 250,000.

The March cover story is at www.govtech.net