Car thieves are increasingly using advanced technology to clone vehicle key fobs, a method particularly effective against newer models equipped with “push-to-start” ignition systems.
State Rep. Jeff Hilovsky is co-sponsoring a new bipartisan bill authored by State Rep. Franklin Cooke (D-Wilmington South, New Castle) to crack down on this type of theft.
House Bill 351 would make it a crime to manufacture, sell, or possess a vehicle key programming device, or any other apparatus, or computer program intended to intercept a key fob signal, or electronically unlock or start a motor vehicle.
The bill banning the sale or use of “vehicle security circumvention technology” would not apply to lawful and reasonable actions, such as tasks performed by police officers, vehicle dealers and distributors, locksmiths, and repossession agencies.
First-time offenders would face a fine of up to $115 and 90 days in jail. Those committing subsequent offenses would face a maximum fine of $230 and 6 months behind bars.
The measure is pending consideration in the House Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee.
