Biometric requirement could make E-Verify worth billions

Washington Technology, Alice Lipowicz

Industry closely watching Schumer bill that would require biometric data

• Real ID Repeat?
• Schumer's support critical
• A question of how

Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) enthusiastically supports adding a biometric identifier to the federal E-Verify employment eligibility verification system, which is setting the stage for potentially one of the largest federal biometric opportunities.

His newly proposed biometric identification program could be huge, potentially encompassing the entire U.S. workforce of 140 million employees. Naturally the biometrics industry is paying attention. Contractors are excited, but they also are tamping down their expectations while trying to sort through the political and social implications of the potential multibillion-dollar identity plan.

“Obviously, it will be a big boost for the industry,” said David Coleman, senior consultant at International Biometric Group consulting firm.

“This is clearly a big opportunity — one of the biggest in the United States,” said Neville Pattinson, vice president of government affairs and business development at Gemalto North America. ::: 4 Pg Article HERE:::