Lawmaker Takes Action to Diminish Demand for Stolen Copper Wire

The momentum to address the pervasive issue of copper wire theft has surged forward with the successful passage of a legislative measure in the U.S. House of Representatives. This newly approved bill, designated as House Bill 23-65 (H.B. 23-65), is poised for consideration in the Senate after receiving unanimous support from the 17 members present during the voting process. Notably, Representatives Julie Ogo, John Paul Sablan, and Manny Castro were excused from participation during this crucial legislative step.

Representative Diego Camacho, the driving force behind H.B. 23-65, shed light on the legislation's primary objective—effectively combating the rampant problem of copper wire theft. Throughout the bill's deliberations, Camacho introduced floor amendments that garnered the approval of his colleagues. These amendments were strategically aimed at refining the definitions articulated in the bill, and they also empowered the House legal counsel to make essential technical edits.

The core of the legislative initiative revolves around the Copper Wire Theft Control Act of 2023, which is encompassed in H.B. 23-65. The act expressly states that no business involved in secondary metals recycling, or any person employed by a secondary metal recycler should possess, buy, or sell copper wire. This prohibition is slated to be enforceable for a duration of two years. Camacho emphasized that the bill is tailored to curtail the recycling of copper wire specifically, assuring that legitimate purchases of copper wire for construction purposes would remain unaffected.

In a candid interview with Variety, Camacho elucidated the strategic underpinning of the bill, encapsulating it in a concise statement: "We end demand, we end supply." The essence of this strategy lies in disrupting the established cycle of copper wire theft by concurrently eliminating both the demand for and supply of stolen copper wire.

The proposed legislation outlines stringent penalties for those found in violation of its provisions. Offenders could face a fine amounting to $5,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum period of one year. These punitive measures are strategically designed to serve as a deterrent, dissuading individuals and businesses from participating in the illicit trade of stolen copper wire.

As H.B. 23-65 progresses to the Senate, its advancement signals the dedication of lawmakers to address the multifaceted issues surrounding copper wire theft comprehensively. The bill strategically targets the recycling dimension of copper wire, aiming to disrupt the economic incentives that drive the theft of this valuable commodity. Throughout the legislative journey of this bill, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its potential impact on curbing copper wire theft and fostering a more secure environment for communities.