http://www.wral.com/news/9976627/detail.html

Two Identity Theft Laws Take Effect In N.C.

POSTED: 5:37 pm EDT October 1, 2006
UPDATED: 5:37 pm EDT October 1, 2006

RALEIGH, N.C. -- State and local government agencies are now required to inform people when their personal information has been lost or stolen under a law that took effect Sunday.

Previously, only businesses were required to disclose such breaches. More than 20 states have similar laws.

Also beginning this week, businesses will no longer be allowed to print Social Security numbers on mailed documents or on cards needed to receive services, including health insurance.

Both laws were drafted to help prevent identity theft.

Last week, 16,000 people were notified by the state Division of Motor Vehicles after a state-owned computer was stolen from an office in Louisburg.