Update on June 7, 2013 from Politico.com:
I SAW THE SIGN … AND I DIDN’T STEAL IT: The Senate Judiciary Committee put off a vote on a bill (S. 394; text: http://1.usa.gov/184aa9d) to cut down on metal theft, including things like street lights, road guard rails and street signs. “I hope we could vote it out and have a voice vote when we do,” Chairman Patrick Leahy said. It will be part of the committee’s next markup, which hasn’t yet been scheduled.
The Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a markup on Thursday, June 6, for the Metal Theft Prevention Act, a multi-faceted bill that would make it more difficult for thieves to sell their metal at scrap yards. This bill would supplement existing state laws against stealing copper but would not supersede them. Now is the time to write to your members of Congress and ask them to support the Metal Theft Prevention Act.
Copper theft is a common problem for electrical distributors: according to the 2010 NAED research study on theft and fraud in the industry, 85% of distributors have experienced theft, with cable and wire being the most common products stolen. The NAED supports this bill’s comprehensive approach to dealing with copper theft, and we have been working to get Congress’ attention about this issue.
To ensure this bill gets the support it needs in Congress, please write to your elected officials today and ask them to support and co-sponsor the Metal Theft Prevention Act.
For more details about the Metal Theft Prevention Act, visit the NAED Government Action Center or contact us at governmentaffairs@naed.org with any questions.
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