HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) and co-sponsored by Sen. Wayne Langerholc (R-35) to target car thieves using new technology to spoof key fobs was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Senate Bill 739 would update the statute governing the manufacture, distribution and possession of master keys to include these new devices, making it a first-degree misdemeanor and ensuring the law keeps pace with technological developments.
“Throughout Pennsylvania, individuals have exploited key programming tools and relay attack devices to gain access to vehicles by cloning or reprogramming key fobs,” Pennycuick said. “Current law does not specifically target this emerging threat. We need to change that.”
“We’re seeing criminals adapt faster than our laws,” said Langerholc. “This legislation closes a dangerous loophole by cracking down on high-tech car theft tools that are increasingly being used across Pennsylvania.”
Senate Bill 739 now goes to the full Senate for consideration.
CONTACT: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388