California governor signs metal theft bill into law

California Gov. Jerry Brown has signed into law AB 2312, which seeks to create a deterrent to metal theftm Sept. 26, 2014. The bill was sponsored by California Assemblyman Brian Nestande. The California State Senate supported the bill on a vote of 33-1, with six not voting, and the California Assembly supported the bill on a vote of 78-0, with one member not voting.

 

The law requires all scrap metal recycling operations in California to subscribe to a regional theft alert system that provides updates on any reported stolen items within 100 miles of their business. The theft alert system will help prevent the purchase of stolen metals and is provided free of charge to recyclers and law enforcement, according to a news release from Nestande’s office. 

 

“If police departments and recyclers can work together more effectively, it will go a long way towards preventing the purchase of stolen metals and the easy cash thieves receive for them,” says Richard Twiss, chief of the Indio Police Department. “AB 2312 helps make that happen by ensuring every recycler is aware of stolen items that could be brought to them.” 

 

According to the assemblyman’s office, as in any other type of theft, metal thefts occur when it is profitable for the perpetrator. Therefore, preventing the easy sale of stolen metals is key to addressing this metal theft problem.    

 

“I am proud of the bipartisan support this new law has received because metal theft continues to be a major problem in Southern California,” Nestande says. “This provides one more tool for officers to help deal with an issue that unfortunately causes expensive repair bills for its victims.”

 

AB 2312 can be viewed here.