HARTFORD, Conn.–Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy has signed a bill that allows Connecticut parents and guardians to freeze their child's credit.
The legislation is designed to help protect children against identity theft, and it was signed on nearly the same day a presentation was being given at the League of Southeastern Credit Unions’ annual meeting that outlined just how profitable the stealing of children’s identities can be for thieves.
The law, which will go into effect on Oct. 1., prohibits credit reporting agencies from releasing a minor child's credit file if it's been frozen. To initiate a freeze, a parent or guardian must send a written request via certified mail to the rating agencies. They must also provide proper identification proving they can act on the child's behalf. The new law requires the agencies to freeze the minor's credit report within five business days after request the request.