With identify theft cases on the rise in Vermont and across the nation, state lawmakers approved a bill intended to protect residents. It has been forwarded to Gov. Jim Douglas.

Vermont is one of only a few states that does not have an identity theft law on the books. But that would change this year if the governor gives his approval.

A bill – H327 – sponsored by Rep. Maureen Dakin, D-Colchester, would create criminal provisions for identity theft and also establish tools to protect victims so the problems associated with the crime don’t escalate, the Rutland Herald reported.

The bill defines identity theft as gaining “the unauthorized use of another person’s personal identifying information to obtain credit, goods, services, money, or property with the intent to commit fraud or pose as that person.”

It would also allow consumers to place a “security freeze” on their credit information to allow them to guard against identity theft.

Anyone found in violation could face up to three years in prison, a $3,000 fine, or both.