A resolution requesting the Davidson County Delegation to the Tennessee General Assembly to introduce and enact the necessary legislation to require metal recycling businesses and scrap metal dealers to maintain a record of transaction whenever copper materials are purchased from individuals, and to require proof of identification from the seller and the origin of the materials.

WHEREAS, due to the substantial increase in the price of copper over the past year, police departments across the country are reporting a substantial increase in the theft of copper materials that are sold to scrap dealers and recyclers; and

WHEREAS, copper thieves are targeting construction sites and outdoor air conditioning units for their copper pipes, tubing and condensors; and

WHEREAS, T.C.A. § 38-1-203 requires that a record of transactions be kept for the sale of used jewelry or precious metals, which is sent to the police department on a daily basis; and

WHEREAS, such record of transaction includes a clear and accurate description of the jewelry or precious metals purchased, the date and amount paid for such items, and the name, race, and address of the seller; and

WHEREAS, requiring such a record of transactions for the sale of used copper materials would help curb the rampant theft of copper that is negatively impacting builders and property owners in Davidson County.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Davidson County Delegation to the Tennessee General Assembly to introduce and enact the necessary legislation to require metal recycling businesses and scrap metal dealers to maintain a record of transaction whenever copper materials are purchased from individuals, and to require proof of identification from the seller and the origin of the materials.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to each member of the Davidson County Delegation to the Tennessee General Assembly.

Section 3. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Eric Crafton, Pam Murray