HARTFORD — Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has signed a bill that allows Connecticut parents and guardians to freeze their child’s credit.
Proponents of the legislation say taking such a step can help protect children from identity theft.
Malloy’s office announced Monday that the governor signed the bill into law on June 19. It takes effect on Oct. 1.
Under the new law, credit reporting agencies would be prohibited from releasing a minor child’s credit file if it’s been frozen. To initiate a freeze, a parent or guardian must send a written request via certified mail to the rating agencies. They must provide proper identification proving they can act on the child’s behalf.
The new law requires the agencies to freeze the minor’s credit report within five business days after request the request.