The measure would prohibit any person or institution from making a Social Security number available to the public, and would forbid the use of Social Security numbers to access goods or services. Rep. Doug Reichley, R-Berks, introduced a similar bill in the House.

“Identity theft is a growing problem across the country. Identity thieves use a variety of personal information, such as account passwords, credit card numbers, and Social Security numbers to commit fraud under the victim’s name,” said Wonderling, Chairman of the Senate Communications and Technology Committee. “Social Security numbers are one of the keys to unlocking an individual’s identity. My bill ensures that this important information is kept private and out of the wrong hands.”

Senate Bill 601 will now be sent to the Governor for his signature.