LANSING -- Identity theft victims will be able to seek compensation for the time and effort it takes to clean up their damaged credit history if legislation proposed by a S.W. Michigan lawmaker becomes law.
Representative Matt Lori (R-Constantine) says that the bill updates Michigan law by better defining what constitutes identity theft, and increasing the penalties. It also makes victims of identity theft eligible for restitution from the Michigan Crime Victim Compensation Fund.
Lori says that the crime is increasing in frequency, and it's time victims get extra help. The legislation also reduces the risk of identity theft by establishing procedures for companies to properly destroy personal data. It now heads to the full House for consideration.
