6/14/04-Gov. Jim Douglas signed a measure into law June 8 creating criminal provisions for identity theft and establishing tools to protect victims so the problems associated with the crime don’t escalate. It takes effect immediately.
The new law, previously H327, creates criminal provisions for identity theft and also establishes tools to protect victims so the problems associated with the crime don’t escalate.
It defines identity theft as gaining “the unauthorized use of another person’s personal identifying information to obtain credit, goods, services, money, or property with the intent to commit fraud or pose as that person.”
In July 2005, the new law will also allow consumers to place a “security freeze” on their credit information.
Anyone found in violation could face up to three years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.

5/27/04-State lawmakers approved a bill May 20 that would create criminal provisions for identity theft and establish tools to protect victims so the problems associated with the crime don’t escalate. It has been forwarded to Gov. Jim Douglas.
H327, sponsored by Rep. Maureen Dakin, D-Colchester, would create criminal provisions for identity theft and also establish tools to protect victims so the problems associated with the crime don’t escalate.
The bill defines identity theft as gaining “the unauthorized use of another person’s personal identifying information to obtain credit, goods, services, money, or property with the intent to commit fraud or pose as that person.”
It would also allow consumers to place a “security freeze” on their credit information to allow them to guard against identity theft.
Anyone found in violation could face up to three years in prison, a $3,000 fine, or both.
For bill status, call (802) 828-2231.

4/8/04-A House bill would create criminal provisions for identity theft and establish tools to protect victims so the problems associated with the crime don’t escalate.
H327, sponsored by Rep. Maureen Dakin, D-Colchester, defines identity theft as gaining “the unauthorized use of another person’s personal identifying information to obtain credit, goods, services, money, or property with the intent to commit fraud or pose as that person.”
It would also allow consumers to place a “security freeze” on their credit information to allow them to guard against identity theft.
Anyone found in violation could face up to three years in prison, a $3,000 fine, or both.
The bill, which passed the House last year, is before the Senate Judiciary Committee. For bill status, call (802) 828-2231.