WASHINGTON, D.C. -- ACTING TO PROTECT THE PRIVACY OF CELL PHONE USERS IN AN ERA OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATION, REPRESENTATIVE SUE MYRICK (NC-9) TODAY JOINED COLLEAGUES IN THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO PASS THE WIRELESS PRIVACY ENHANCEMENT ACT, OUTLAWING THE INTENTIONAL INTERCEPTION OR DIVULGENCE OF CELL PHONE COMMUNICATIONS.

"Whether you're using a cell phone to talk about family matters or to conduct business, you have a right to expect that the conversation will be kept private. The Wireless Privacy Act will do just that by punishing criminals who would tap into your cell phone," Myrick said.

"For the first time last year, more people bought wireless phones than traditional phones. By passing the Wireless Privacy Act to outlaw cell phone eavesdropping, Congress has recognized that we need to update our laws to keep pace with changing technology," Myrick said.

The Wireless Privacy Enhancement Act (H.R. 514), which passed the House by a vote of 403 to 3, would outlaw the intentional interception or divulgence of private radio communications, and would make it illegal to manufacture scanners that are capable of intercepting new wireless communications such as pagers, personal communications services, and mobile radio services.

Myrick represents North Carolina's Ninth Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. The District includes parts of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, and Gaston, Lincoln, and Cleveland Counties.

Contact: David Spooner (202) 225-0068