House passes bill creating identification-fraud offense after debate over investigation authority

The Utah House passed House Bill 163 on a unanimous 70–0 vote after floor debate over enforcement authority and penalty scope.

Sponsor Representative Bennion introduced the bill as creating “the crime of identification fraud,” and the chamber first approved an amendment to insert the phrase “and private keys as defined in section 46-3-103” after the word “signatures.” Representative Bennion said the amendment coordinates the bill with other code sections.

Lawmakers questioned why the bill singles out medical information and whether the provision should carry a higher penalty. Representative Hogue asked why medical information is expressly identified on one line; he and others voiced concern that misuse of medical data can cause discrimination and serious personal harm. Bennion and other supporters replied the bills follow legislative research recommendations and are written to align with existing code classifications.

Members also debated whether investigations of identification-fraud crimes should remain with local law enforcement or be centralized. Supporters, including Representative Cohen, argued that local jurisdictions already handle cross-jurisdictional crime and should have the prosecutorial tool. Opponents pointed to a Senate bill that would place investigative responsibility with the Division of Consumer Protection and said a statewide office could reduce burden on local investigators who must travel across jurisdictions. Bennion said the House bill leaves jurisdiction with local authorities and that he is working with federal delegation staff on tracking mechanisms.

After discussion, the House closed debate and approved HB 163 as amended. The bill received 70 yes votes, 0 no votes, and will be sent to the Senate for further consideration.