The bill amends the Scrap Metal Theft Reduction Act to enhance law enforcement's ability to investigate violations and establishes criminal penalties for certain infractions. It grants the attorney general jurisdiction over the act's implementation and enforcement, allowing for the employment of agents, investigation, and issuance of subpoenas. Notably, the bill authorizes Kansas law enforcement officers to conduct investigations and requires them to submit reports to the attorney general, regardless of local actions taken. Additionally, it repeals previous provisions that allowed municipalities to enact conflicting ordinances regarding scrap metal regulations.

The bill also establishes two funds: the Scrap Metal Theft Reduction Fee Fund and the Scrap Metal Data Repository Fund, both to be administered by the attorney general and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, respectively. These funds will support the administration and operational expenses related to the act. Furthermore, it outlines civil penalties for scrap metal dealers who violate the act, with penalties ranging from $100 to $5,000 per violation. The bill emphasizes the confidentiality of information maintained in the database and protects scrap metal dealers from civil liability for information provided to the database.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 50-6, 75-6102
As Amended by House Committee: 50-6