Posted: | February 22, 2017 10:16 AM |
---|---|
From: | Representative John Taylor and Rep. Kevin J. Boyle |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Legislation to Implement a State-wide Scrap Metal Transaction Database |
In the near future, we plan to introduce legislation that would implement a state-wide scrap metal transaction database. Scrap metal theft is a serious, ongoing problem that defies easy detection and apprehension of thieves. Act 113 of 2008, known as the Scrap Material Theft Prevention Act, empowers law enforcement to physically inspect sales records at scrap processing plants. However, current efforts are proving to be disjointed and inefficient, requiring significant time commitment and follow-up by officers. Our legislation is an effort to make investigation and enforcement simpler, while ensuring uniformity across the state. This bill will amend Act 113 by creating a database and requiring scrap processors to register with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office. The Attorney General's office will also be in charge of maintaining the new database. Our efforts are based on similar effective laws in Tennessee and Ohio. Scrap metal theft affects each district in the state. We believe that consumers and law enforcement deserve the best tools available to provide a simple, yet effective solution that helps prevent theft. Please join us in supporting this important legislation. |