Canadian co. to produce driver photos

ALBANY, NY (AP) - Cash-strapped New York has tentatively chosen the highest bidder to produce driver's licenses under a disputed contract that would provide only black-and-white photos.

According to court papers reviewed by The Associated Press, the contract will cost taxpayers nearly $38 million more than the current contract if it's approved.

The apparent losing vendors, including the company that has produced New York licenses with color photos for 16 years, are protesting the $88.5 million award to a Canadian company.

The award to CBN Secure Technology Inc. of Ottawa is being reviewed by the state comptroller.

CBN is part of the Canadian Bank Note company that prints Canadian money, passports and driver's licenses worldwide. Company officials did not respond to repeated requests for comment.