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Senate committee advances measure to tighten resale of stolen telecom equipment
Summary
Lawmakers voted unanimously to advance SB 271 after industry witnesses said clarifying resale rules and documentation requirements would reduce copper and telecommunications-equipment thefts that threaten emergency communications and broadband service.
The Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee unanimously advanced a bill tightening rules for the sale of telecommunications network equipment, with witnesses saying the change will make it harder for thieves and unscrupulous buyers to profit from stolen infrastructure.
Sponsor Sen. Cook told the committee SB 271 would clarify that telecom equipment counts as "valuable metal" and require sellers to show authorization to sell equipment and retain records of transactions. "This important legislation addresses the theft and unlawful sale of telecommunications network equipment and strengthens accountability for those who purchase valuable metals," Lianna Herrera, senior director of government affairs for Charter Communications (Spectrum), said in testimony.
Industry and trade witnesses described service disruptions, costs and public-safety risks when lines are cut or equipment is stolen. Daniel Miller, president of the Indiana Broadband and Technology Association, said the bill targets a national problem that disproportionately harms rural providers and 9-1-1 centers. Joseph Dant of the Indiana Cable and Broadband Association and a representative of the recycling industry also testified in support, praising the sponsor's work and an amendment that tightens demand-side safeguards.
The sponsor moved amendment 2 to limit the purchasers who may accept telecommunications components and to require proof of authorization; the committee adopted the amendment by consent. After the roll call, the measure passed the committee by voice and tally, recorded as 7-0.
What happens next: SB 271 was advanced by the committee and will proceed to the next stage in the Senate calendar; staff indicated they will monitor second-reading changes and coordinate with stakeholders about technical language.
Sources: Committee hearing and roll-call votes as recorded in the committee transcript.
