by Carmen Amato
Legislation sponsored by Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-Ocean) to increase criminal penalties for identity theft crimes committed against senior citizens and veterans was approved by the New Jersey Senate. Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Gregory Myhre have introduced the companion bill, A-1749.
S-1526 strengthens penalties for individuals who steal personal identifying information from these vulnerable populations or target records maintained by retirement communities, nursing homes, and veterans' facilities.
"Identity theft can devastate a person's finances, reputation, and sense of security, and seniors and veterans are often among the most vulnerable targets," said Senator Amato. "My legislative district is home to a large population of seniors who have worked their entire lives to build financial stability. They deserve stronger protections and the assurance that New Jersey's laws will hold criminals accountable when they prey on vulnerable residents."
Under the bill, identity theft offenses involving senior citizens or veterans would be elevated to higher-degree crimes, resulting in tougher penalties and longer potential prison sentences. The bill also increases penalties for individuals who unlawfully obtain, manufacture, or distribute personal identifying information taken from records maintained by retirement and long-term care facilities, as well as veterans' facilities.
The legislation has bipartisan support with Senator Paul Sarlo (D-Bergen, Passaic) as Second Prime Sponsor.
Read the full text of the bill online.
Source:
Amato Bill Protecting Seniors and Veterans from Identity Theft Passes Senate
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