Protect Citizens, Property by Reducing Scrap Metal Thefts

Between 2006 and 2007, AT&T reported a 140 percent increase in copper thefts in Michigan. This staggering percentage does not even include other valuable metals like aluminum and platinum that are stolen and sold. These metals are stripped off anything from cables and telephone wires to cars, unoccupied homes and construction sites.

Theft of electric service cables and telephone wires can result in hazardous situations for residents and neighborhoods. Often times, people lose power as well as 911 emergency service. Traffic signals are also frequently knocked out, endangering drivers.

Metal theft from private and public property is growing at a dangerous rate throughout Michigan. With scrap metal prices at a record high, we need to take action to not only keep our neighborhoods safe, but also to protect our homes and businesses from being vandalized.

I’ve been working to address this issue through Senate Bill 720, a bill I co-sponsored to amend the current law to regulate metal scrap processors the same way as junk and secondhand dealers are regulated. This legislation, led by Senator Buzz Thomas, would impose stricter regulations on scrap metal sales by prohibiting purchases or sales between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. and requiring processors to have a license.

By overseeing scrap dealer operations, we will ensure these business owners are not taking part in illegal activity or endangering lives by purchasing or selling scrap metals criminally obtained. We can deter theft while still continuing to allow scrap metal dealers and businesses to buy from commercial and industrial customers without burdensome rules.

This bill would also increase punishments for those who knowingly purchase stolen metals. Those who buy stolen metals can be found guilty and punished for up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,000. A person who buys or sells materials taken from a utility pole or property, government property or telecommunications property can result in imprisonment for up to five years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

The House has also recently addressed the issue of metal theft through their legislation that would ban scrap dealers from making cash transactions, provide tougher penalties for those who steal copper wire or purchase it, and provide careful records of sales.

Protecting Michigan’s citizens and properties is a high priority for me. No one should have to wake up in the morning to find parts missing from their cars or homes and no neighborhood should have to suffer if they lose power from a stolen wire. We need to create a safer Michigan and put an end to scrap metal thefts and this legislation will help to do just that.