~ Washington Times: Identity-theft bill poses threat to PIs ~

The Washington Times notes that private investigators use data on individuals for legitimate legal purposes. It is well known to us that PI's are not involved in data leaks, breach, peeps or thefts (I was going for theefts!) but Congress and the rest of the world need more explanation of what we do and how it benefits society.

Congress has not addressed the role of private investigators in the half-dozen identity-theft bills proposed this session or planned for introduction soon.

Rep. Cliff Stearns, Florida Republican, said a solution could be to exempt licensed investigators from some restrictions on access to consumer information. "The balance is how much information do we give to private investigators," said Mr. Stearns, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce commerce, trade and consumer protection subcommittee. "That's a legitimate question."