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Senate backs tougher rules for scrap metal dealers to curb thefts from construction sites
Summary
Senate Bill 44, sponsored by Senator Griner at law enforcement's request, moves forward; it calls for stronger identification and recordkeeping (including potential fingerprinting options) at scrap yards to help law enforcement trace stolen metal. Supporters stressed reduction in thefts; dealers raised concerns about fingerprinting.
SALT LAKE CITY — Senators advanced Senate Bill 44, a measure aimed at reducing metal theft by increasing identification and recordkeeping requirements for scrap metal transactions.
Senator Griner, who sponsored the bill at the Utah Sheriffs Association’s request, said metals theft from construction sites and infrastructure has skyrocketed and that law enforcement needs a reliable link between cash receipts and sellers. Earlier attempts to impose a 72-hour hold on metal purchases were dropped after industry feedback; the current draft focuses on identification options, including thumbprints or other verifiable identification methods.
Supporters included construction and contractor representatives who described repeated losses of copper and other materials. Senator Jenkins, a construction-sector ally, said the thefts were ‘‘rampant’’ and urged support for the bill. Senator Romero also voiced support, describing constituent reports of worksite theft.
Opposition from some scrap dealers centered on the privacy and operational impacts of fingerprint requirements; the sponsor said stakeholders had worked toward a compromise and that law enforcement and major contractors supported the bill.
The Senate placed the bill for third reading with recorded support during the floor session; the bill passed third reading with broad support and will proceed in the legislative process.
