House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

According to the ACLU, at least 75 agencies in 27 states and Washington D.C. have and use cell site simulator devices. These devices, commonly known as IMSI catchers, Hailstorm or Stingrays, trick nearby phones and other communications devices into connecting to them, after which it is able to capture data from the connected phones.

The use of the devices have triggered privacy concerns as they can affect any phones or communication devices within range. Boundaries are necessary for the use of this technology because Pennsylvanians deserve a reasonable expectation of privacy.

My legislation would strike a balance between privacy expectations and and the use of these investigation tools by updating the Wiretap Act to include cell site simulator devices. Under the bill, a person is prohibited from possessing, using or installing a cell site simulator device without a warrant. My bill includes exceptions for stolen communication devices or when consent is given by the user, legal guardian or next of kin. It also includes requirements for the warrant application procedure and content to be included in an issued warrant, directions for information gathered when a cell site simulator device is used and required reports.

I ask that you join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my Harrisburg office at 717-705-1925.