California passes AB 476 to combat copper wire theft and protect public infrastructure

The California State Senate's Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee recently discussed a critical bill aimed at combating the rising issue of copper wire theft, which has significant implications for public safety and community infrastructure. Assembly Bill 476 seeks to enhance enforcement measures against this crime, which has surged as copper prices reach historic highs.

The bill outlines four main provisions designed to protect vital public assets. First, it will require junk dealers and recyclers to collect more detailed information before purchasing non-ferrous metals like copper. This aims to create a clearer trail of ownership and discourage illegal sales. Second, it will prohibit possession of certain scrap metals, including those from public infrastructure—such as street lights and traffic signals—without proper documentation. This measure is intended to safeguard essential community resources.

Additionally, AB 476 proposes to increase penalties for copper theft, aligning them more closely with the financial and social costs incurred by communities when these materials are stolen. The bill also introduces a new legal tool to prosecute organized metal theft, allowing for enhanced charges against repeat offenders, similar to laws governing retail theft.

The urgency of this legislation is underscored by alarming statistics. Cities across California, including Los Angeles, San Jose, and Santa Monica, are experiencing a spike in thefts that not only disrupt public services but also impose heavy financial burdens on taxpayers. For instance, the iconic Sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles, recently renovated, has been left dark after thieves stole nearly 7 miles of copper wiring, resulting in repair costs estimated at $2.5 million—far exceeding the scrap value of the stolen metal.

The committee emphasized that this is not merely a financial issue but a public safety concern, as streetlight outages have doubled since 2021, leading to increased requests for repairs. AB 476 is seen as a common-sense approach to address this ongoing crisis, ensuring that communities are not left in the dark and that essential infrastructure is protected.

As the bill moves forward, it reflects a growing recognition of the need for stronger protections against copper theft, aiming to restore safety and reliability to public spaces across California.