THE Senate on Friday unanimously passed Senate Bill 24-22, which would require credit and debit card users to present a valid photo ID when making purchases.
All eight senators present voted to pass S.B. 24-22, which now goes to the House of Representatives.
Authored by Sen. Frank Q. Cruz, S.B. 24-22 would require all business establishments to mandate that customers provide a valid photo ID for any transaction involving debit or credit cards, as well as check-cash exchanges or purchases.
Any business found in violation of this measure will be ordered to make restitution for any financial loss suffered by a victim. Unauthorized credit card charges and fees will not be reversed, and the business will be subject to a civil penalty of up to $250 for the first violation and up to $1,000 for each subsequent violation.
Prior to the bill’s passage, Senate Floor Leader Donald M. Manglona expressed support for the legislation, noting that he had recently spoken to a vendor who processed debit and credit card transactions, even over the phone. However, the vendor later mentioned that an individual disputed a transaction, claiming identity theft.
Manglona said businesses should take the requirement of showing a valid ID and photo seriously, as it is for both their protection and the protection of cardholders.
Cruz thanked Manglona for his support. He said “when we introduce legislation, it’s not because of us. It is because of the complaints of members of the public.”
He said he too received a call recently from a senior citizen whose debit card was used without authorization by a family member, resulting in a loss of money.
Cruz said it may be difficult for senior citizens to file a formal complaint with the authorities, but his bill will assist them.
Senate President Dennis Mendiola, for his part, said S.B. 24-22 would provide an additional layer of protection for both vendors and consumers.
