Why do I have to request a real ID when they become mandatory for air travel in 2021?? Seems like a great way to make money for the state.

Real ID is not mandatory. You can use a passport or other acceptable ID to fly and enter secure federal facilities. But, if you want to use your driver's license or state ID to fly, it will have to be a Real ID beginning 10/1/21. See https://getrealnevada.com/ and https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Well i dont think they are mandatory. Without the star you cannot enter government buildings or fly. And they did extend the deadline until almost the end of 2021

My real id didn't cost any more than the basic fee for license renewal. I just had to bring in more documents