FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has joined a 15-state coalition urging Congress to pass legislation that would expand federal penalties for crimes involving ATMs.

The Safe Access to Cash Act would update the Federal Bank Robbery Act to cover ATMs located away from banks, including those at convenience stores, gas stations and grocery stores.

The proposal would also allow federal prosecution in cases involving theft or destruction of off-site ATMs and robberies of people using them.

Coleman said the legislation would give law enforcement additional tools to combat ATM-related crime.

The Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously advanced the bill in March.

Kentucky joined attorneys general from 14 other states in supporting the measure, which must still receive congressional approval before becoming law.