The Arizona House has given its final OK to a bill creating tougher monitoring of scrap metal transactions. The measure, from Representative Tom Forese enhances anti-theft laws to require all scrap dealers to register with the Department of Public Safety.
It also requires the keeping of records in all scrap metal transactions, not just those over $25. Flagstaff Republican Bob Thorpe calls the measure very important.
"There are folks who literately climb up power poles and electrocute themselves in order to try to steal the copper that has high voltage running through it," Thorpe said.
Opponents say the bill takes away control of local police enforcement. The measure now heads to Governor Jan Brewer.