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For Immediate Release
March 4, 2009
Contact: Sally Kohr
(717) 787-4651

Alloway Cosponsors Legislation to Help Prevent Identity Theft

HARRISBURG – Sen. Richard Alloway II (R-33) is cosponsoring two bills that would subject identity thieves to felony charges for stealing or misusing personal information.  

Senate Bill 300 would make it a second-degree felony to steal confidential personal information. Individuals who receive stolen personal information would be guilty of a third-degree felony. 

Senate Bill 299 would make it a second-degree felony to solicit identifying information through false pretenses, also known as phishing. It would be a third-degree felony to sell any personal information obtained through phishing.  

"Victims of identity theft can spend months or even years to repair their credit and their reputation," Alloway said. "These bills will ensure that those who perpetrate identity theft are put behind bars." 

Senate Bill 299 was referred to the Senate Communications and Technology Committee for consideration. Senate Bill 300 was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.