Metal theft.

Assembly Member Mark González's metal theft prevention legislation introduces comprehensive changes to California's regulation of scrap metal transactions and strengthens protections for public infrastructure. The bill establishes new requirements for junk dealers and recyclers while creating a licensing system for scrap copper sales.

The legislation mandates enhanced transaction documentation, requiring dealers to record the time, payment amount, and employee name for each sale alongside existing identification requirements. Dealers must now obtain proof of lawful ownership before purchasing nonferrous metals through either purchase documentation or contractor verification. The bill also prohibits purchasing nonferrous metals from minors and extends record retention requirements to one year.

To combat infrastructure theft, the measure expands restrictions on possessing public agency materials without written certification. The prohibited items now include street lighting components, traffic signals, communications equipment, and various utility infrastructure elements. Law enforcement gains authority to conduct compliance inspections during business hours, while maximum fines for violations increase from $3,000 to $10,000.

A new licensing framework requires individuals selling scrap copper to obtain authorization from the Contractors State License Board, with exceptions for licensed contractors and certified technicians. The annual license requires a $500 fee and proof of lawful metal acquisition. The registrar may deny, restrict or revoke licenses based on legal violations or consumer complaints, with fees supporting the Contractors License Fund.

The legislation maintains existing requirements for dealers to verify seller identity, document transaction details, and report sales to law enforcement. It preserves provisions requiring dealers who unknowingly receive prohibited materials to notify authorities by the next business day.