HB173 Summary

• Allows Alabama consumers who are identity theft victims to place a security freeze on their credit reports by certified mail or internet, with consumer credit reporting agencies required to implement internet and toll-free phone options within 30 days.

• Requires credit reporting agencies to place freezes within 3 business days of written request and provide consumers with a unique PIN/password to temporarily lift freezes for specific time periods.

• Permits agencies to charge up to $3 per freeze placement, removal, or temporary lift, with exemptions for consumers age 65+ and identity theft victims with valid police reports filed within 90 days.

• Establishes specific procedures for temporarily lifting freezes, including 15-minute response times for electronic/phone requests and 3 business days for written requests when consumer provides proper identification and PIN.

• Imposes a maximum fine of $100 per violation affecting a specific consumer and requires agencies to notify consumers of freeze procedures and inform them of changes to official information on file.