ABC27 WHTM Bill to clamp down on copper theft passes Pa. House

Bill to clamp down on copper theft passes Pa. House

The state House of Representatives has approved legislation that would increase penalties for repeat offenders convicted of stealing copper and other metals.

House Bill 2032 would make it a third-degree felony when someone is charged with a second or third theft, regardless of the amount stolen.

A conviction would carry a maximum sentence of seven years in prison and/or $15,000 fine.

The bill's sponsor, Butler County Republican Daryl Metcalfe, said he introduced the measure after hearing about repeated thefts of copper wiring from communications companies and electric utilities.

"By signing this legislation into law, Pennsylvania can send an undeniable message, just like more than 30 other states," Metcalfe said in a news release. "Repeat offenders who make a criminal enterprise out of stealing copper wiring or any other secondary metal should spend serious time behind bars."

The legislation now advances to the state Senate for consideration.