Lawmakers OK bill to crack down on scrap metal sales
Thefts and vandalism at construction sites on the rise

PHOENIX – The Legislature approved a bill intended to combat widespread metal thefts due to high prices for scrap by making it harder for thieves to anonymously sell stolen wire, air conditioner parts and other material stripped from buildings, farm equipment and other locations.

The Senate approved the final version of the bill (HB2314) 26‑3 last week, after the House passed it on a 55‑0 vote. It now goes to Gov. Janet Napolitano.

Among other things, the bill would restrict on‑the‑spot payments for large purchases and impose new reporting requirements on dealers.

State law already requires scrap metal dealers to keep a record of each transaction exceeding $25, logging a description of the metal, the dollar amount paid and identifying information about the seller and the seller’s vehicle. Sales of used drink containers are exempt.

The bill would add new requirements, including requiring buyers to use a seller’s driver’s license or other photo ID to verify identification information. They also must keep a photocopy of the identification and photos or video recording of the seller and the material purchased by the dealer. Payments for transactions of $300 or more must be made by mailed check or money order.

The bill also would restrict what material can be purchased as scrap and make it a felony to damage a building, construction site or agricultural installation to steal metal.

Utilities, the Arizona Farm Bureau and the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police were among groups supporting the bill. A Salt River Project lobbyist told a House committee that metal thefts and vandalism have been growing problems and that the legislation would help law enforcement track down thieves.