April 23, 2008

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — “The Floridians for Copper and Metal Crime Prevention Coalition and Associated Industries of Florida applaud the work of the Florida Legislature in passing crucial legislation to help curb metal theft activity, a crime that has seen a dramatic rise in recent years.  This legislation will act to deter thieves from bringing stolen items to a legitimate secondary metal dealer by requiring these metal dealers to keep records from who they acquire metal.  In addition, any unscrupulous metal dealers who do not provide the required information for a sale and who receive stolen property can be charged with a third-degree felony.

“Due to the increasing worldwide demand for metals, metal theft is on the rise and can jeopardize the safety of individuals who are affected by the theft, as well as wreaking havoc on communities by causing power outages and surges.  We are grateful for the hard work and commitment of Representative Baxter Troutman, Senator Lee Constantine and Senator Victor; the Coalition is confident this legislation will protect the safety of all Floridians.”

Floridians for Copper and Metal Crime Prevention Coalition

American Fire Sprinkler Association Alarm Association of Florida Anheuser-Busch Companies Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida Associated Builders & Contractors of Florida Associated Industries of Florida AT&T Beer Industry of Florida Coors Brewing Company City of Orlando Embarq Florida Association of General Contractors Florida Association of Electrical Contractors Florida Building Material Association Florida Carpenters Regional Council Florida Electric Cooperatives Association Florida Farm Bureau Florida Fire Equipment Dealers Association Florida Home Builders Association Florida Municipal Electric Association

Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association Florida Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association Florida Retail Federation Florida Roofing, Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors Association Florida Solar Energy Industries Association Florida Swimming Pool Association Florida Telecommunications Industry Association Florida Transportation Builders Association Florida Wall & Ceiling Contractors Association FP&L Gulf Power Hillsborough County Independent Electrical Contractors of Florida Miller Brewing TECO Underground Utility Contractors of Florida United Pool & Spa Association