If enacted, HB3398 would amend Title 18 of the United States Code by creating a new section (2113A) dedicated to ATM-related offenses. This legislative action would provide federal machinery to crack down on crimes involving ATMs, establishing prison terms of up to twenty years for severe violations, including robbery and property tampering. This amendment is anticipated to bolster the legal framework surrounding financial transactions and enhance the overall safety of users and service personnel interacting with ATMs.
Summary
House Bill 3398, known as the 'Safe Access to Cash Act of 2023', aims to establish criminal offenses related to automated teller machines (ATMs). The bill specifically targets offenses involving robbery and tampering with ATMs, delineating penalties for actions such as using force or intimidation against individuals using or servicing ATMs. The proposed legislation is a response to increasing concerns about the safety and security of both ATM users and the cash delivery personnel who service these machines.
Contention
Despite the overall support for the objectives of the bill regarding protecting financial interests, discussions around HB3398 have raised concerns about its implications for law enforcement and resource allocation. Critics worry that increased criminalization may not effectively deter such offenses or address the underlying social issues contributing to these crimes. Additionally, considerations on whether existing laws are sufficient to handle ATM-related crimes without new federal measures have sparked debate among legislators.