HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 82



(By Delegates H. White, R. M. Thompson, Hrutkay, Perry, Perdue, Canterbury, Butcher, Morgan, Iaquinta, Foster, Walters, Azinger, Hartman and G. White)


(Originating in the Committee on Banking and Insurance)


[March 10, 2004]
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government Finance to conduct a study of the impact of credit card fraud upon businesses in West Virginia and means to ensure the effective prosecution of these crimes .

Whereas, many businesses in West Virginia accept credit cards; and
Whereas, due to the nature of credit card transactions, there are instances when individuals may fraudulently use credit cards to purchase products or services; and
Whereas, credit card transactions which are conducted via the Internet or U.S. Mail are particularly subject to credit card fraud; and
Whereas, credit card fraud results in significant financial losses for West Virginia businesses; and
Whereas, West Virginia businesses have an interest in exploring means of eliminating credit card fraud; and
Whereas, both citizens and businesses have an interest in ensuring that these actions are prosecuted; and
Whereas, there may be instances where companies which issue credit cards may be able to supply information to county prosecutors to help facilitate effective prosecution of these matters; and
Whereas, successful prosecution of crimes relating to credit card fraud can result in savings to consumers while at the same time fostering a stable business environment for West Virginia companies; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

 That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby directed to conduct a study of the impact of credit card fraud on businesses in West Virginia and means to ensure the effective prosecution of these crimes ; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report its findings and recommendations resulting from the study to the regular session of the Legislature, 2005, together with drafts of any proposed legislation necessary to effectuate such recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.