JEFFERSON CITY — Legislation sponsored by Sen. David Sater, R-Cassville, combating scrap metal and copper theft was approved by the Missouri Senate today (3-7) by a 34-0 vote.

Scrap metal and copper theft continues to be a very real problem throughout Missouri. Late last year, more than $10,000 worth of copper wire was stolen from a Christmas light display in Monett and, in a five-month period in 2010, air conditioner units, which contain copper piping, were stolen from more than a dozen churches in Greene and Lawrence counties, costing one church as much as $30,000.

“Metal theft is a serious problem, not only in the 29th District, but throughout the state. It seems that no behavior is off limits to these thieves,” Sen. Sater said. “This bill would make it more difficult for criminals to profit from stealing the property of law-abiding citizens and would give law enforcement a new tool in the fight against scrap metal theft.”

Senate Bill 157 would require new documentation requirements for scrap metal purchases, such as the gender, birth date and photograph of the seller. The bill would also create an electronic record system that would be accessible by law enforcement and would create new penalties for dealers who knowingly buy stolen metal.

“Metal theft has affected so many of our communities and is costing businesses, homeowners and churches,” Sater said. “They often cannot afford to replace these stolen items, and something has to be done to address this problem.”

The bill now proceeds to the Missouri House of Representatives for similar consideration. For more information on SB 157, as well as other legislation sponsored by Sen. Sater, please visit his website at www.senate.mo.gov/sater.