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White's Bill Cracks Down on Fake ID Users
SB 1129 Would Allow Confiscation of Bogus Cards, Detention of
Minors
HARRISBURG -- It's almost like the punch line to a bad joke: “What
could the bartender do when the minor displayed a fake ID card? Nothing!”
Except State Senator Don White, R-41st District,
isn't laughing about it. In fact, he is introducing legislation that would
crack down on the use of false ID cards by giving new powers to the owners and
employees of establishments where alcohol is sold.
“I find it extremely disturbing that under
Pennsylvania's current laws minors can flash a false ID and the people at the
front lines in the war against underage drinking can only turn them away,”
Senator White said.
Senator White has introduced Senate Bill 1129,
legislation with bipartisan support, that would require any person who is
authorized to sell liquor or malt or brewed beverages (state store clerks, beer
distributors, restaurant or bar employees) to confiscate an identification card
when they have a reasonable suspicion the card has not been lawfully issued to
the individual. Confiscated identification cards would then be forwarded to law
enforcement.
“Under existing law, it is a summary offense for a
first violation and a misdemeanor of the third degree for any subsequent
violation for individuals under the age of 21 to possess or use a false
identification card,” Senator White said. “However, when an underage person
presents a false ID, the liquor licensee or state store clerk has no authority
to confiscate the identification or detain the minor until law enforcement can
arrive.
SB 1129 would also permit employees to detain
individuals who attempt to purchase liquor using a false identification card on
their licensed premises, until authorities arrive.
“Currently, there is no provision that grants
this authority,” Senator White said. “My bill makes detention an option. It
gives shops, bars and restaurants the same alternatives as retailers when
dealing with shoplifters.”
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