ATLANTA – State Representative Scot Turner (R-Holly Springs) today announced that the Georgia House of Representatives passed House Bill 866, legislation he sponsored, by a vote of 168-1. This measure would prohibit credit reporting agencies from charging a fee for freezing or unfreezing a consumer account.
“Identity theft and credit fraud cases are increasing annually, and in light of this growing problem, it is critical that we take action to ensure that Georgians are protected,” said Rep. Turner. “Between the three major credit reporting agencies, the current $3 fee quickly adds up, and HB 866 would allow our state’s citizens to protect their identity and credit accounts without being financially burdened.”
Currently, consumer credit reporting agencies may charge consumers a fee of no more than $3 for each security freeze placement, any permanent security freeze removal or any temporary security freeze lifting for a period of time. Additionally, consumer credit reporting agencies may charge protected consumers a fee of no more than $10 for each placement or removal of a security freeze. HB 866 would remove all such fees.
HB 866 will now go to the Senate for consideration. If passed by the Senate, HB 866 would require the governor’s signature in order to take effect.
For more information on HB 866, please click here.
Representative Scot Turner represents the citizens of District 21, which includes portions of Cherokee County. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2013 and currently serves on the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Governmental Affairs, Science and Technology, Special Rules and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.
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