A number of bills pending in the U.S. House and Senate would restrict the use of social security numbers in an effort to curb identity theft. A bill sponsored by Congressman Edward Markey would prevent the sale of social security numbers except for use by law enforcement or in certain emergency situations. Another bill, sponsored by Congressman Clay Shaw would prevent businesses from refusing to do business with individuals who do not want to disclose their social security numbers and would also prohibit social security numbers from being displayed on credit reports and other documents where the identifiers have traditionally appeared. To review the Markey and Shaw bills, go to: http://thomas.loc.gov/ and search for bill numbers HR 1078 and HR 750. For an article with more information, go to: http://news.com.com/2100-7348_3-6071441.html

For more information about legislation involving technology, intellectual property protection of information technology assets or any other Information Technology law issue, contact your Miller Canfield attorney or Kathy Ossian, Leader of our Information Technology Team, via e-mail (ossian@millercanfield.com) or phone (313/496-7644). This message is for general information only and should not be used as a basis for specific action without obtaining further legal advice.