Topeka ? A bill requiring Kansans to provide certain proof of identity when getting driver’s licenses received tentative Senate approval Wednesday amid some members’ fears about privacy violations.

Touted by supporters as offering protection against identity theft, the measure advanced to final Senate action on a voice vote.

The bill would require that people applying for a driver’s license or state identification card provide their Social Security number or taxpayer ID number. Alternatively, they could sign a statement that they are legal residents.

Starting in July 2004, the state would have to verify Social Security or taxpayer numbers or “foundation” documents, such as birth certificates. The authenticity of photographs would also have to be verified before they were placed on a driver’s license or state identification card.

To cover the estimated $1.5 million cost to the state, the bill includes a $2 increase in the $15 fee for a six-year driver’s license.

Sen. Barbara Allen, R-Overland Park, said the bill would make it harder for criminals to obtain fake identifications and assume others’ identities.

But the bill faced criticism because the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services could use the Social Security or taxpayer ID numbers on the applications to locate parents who owe child support.

Sen. Kay O’Connor, R-Olathe, questioned whether SRS would be able to keep Social Security or taxpayer numbers confidential. Sens. David Haley, D-Kansas City, and Tim Huelskamp, R-Fowler, said the bill represented another attempt by government to monitor citizens’ lives.

Allen said the state could lose $133 million a year in federal funds if it did not include the provision dealing with SRS.

Other senators doubted Allen’s assertion and said federal officials wanted the state to create a universal identification card.

“I see no reason to invade the privacy and legal interests of every person in the state who wants to drive legally,” said Sen. Ed Pugh, R-Wamego.

Last year, similar legislation became entangled with the issue of allowing undocumented immigrants to drive legally.

Identity theft bill is SB 16.