FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
January 21, 2003
Back
Erickson: Effort to Combat Identity Theft Means New
Rules for Obtaining Copies of Birth, Death Certificates
Harrisburg – The effort to combat the growing problem of identity
theft has resulted in tighter rules for obtaining certified copies of
birth certificates and death certificates, state Sen. Ted Erickson
(R-26) said today.
"Law enforcement authorities have identified an increase in the use
of certified copies of original birth certificates for fraudulent
purposes," said Erickson "This fraud is directly linked to identify
theft, which is the fastest growing white collar crime in the nation."
In an effort to curb this fraud, the state Department of Health is
implementing measures to authenticate the identity and addresses of
those requesting birth and death certificates. The measures require the
completion of a revised application form that contains a "Statement of
Entitlement" attesting to the identity of the requestor, submission of
photo identification and verification of the requestor's address.
"Helping constituents of the 26th Senator District obtain copies of
birth and death certificates is an important job," said Erickson. "My
staff is aware of these new rules and will help constituents get through
the process."
The senator's district office is located at 5037 Township Line Road,
Drexel Hill (610) 853-4100.
For information on how to apply on-line for birth or death
certificates, visit the state Department of Health website at
www.health.state.pa.us/vitalrecords .
CONTACT: Chuck McDonald (610-853-4100)
