SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6518

As of January 22, 2002

Title:  An act relating to requiring a social security number for the purpose of identification.

Brief Description:  Requiring a social security number for the purpose of identification or as a condition of doing business with a customer.

Sponsors:  Senators Finkbeiner, Fairley, Stevens, Roach, Kohl‑Welles and Winsley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Labor, Commerce & Financial Institutions:  1/24/02.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Staff:  Matthew Adams (786‑7784)

Background:  Washington's Consumer Protection Act (CPA) protects citizens from harmful business practices.  The CPA declares that unfair methods of competition and deceptive trade or commercial practices are unlawful.  The CPA does not prohibit businesses from requesting a person's social security number for identification purposes or commercial transactions.

In certain instances, federal law requires states to disclose social security numbers as a condition to receiving federal funds.

Summary of Bill:  It is a violation of the Consumer Protection Act for businesses to require a social security number for identification purposes or as a condition of doing business with a customer, unless clearly required by federal law or regulation.

All rules must meet federal requirements to secure the state's receipt of federal funds.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.