ST. PAUL, Minn. (KFGO) – A month before a new state law takes effect, scrap metal workers are suing the Minnesota Dept. of Commerce.
The copper wire theft law is designed to make it more difficult for thieves to steal the metal, which has been a problem in recent years in cities across the state. In 2023, St. Paul said it spent $1.2 million repairing and replacing street lights and signals that were damaged by copper wire thieves.
Starting Jan. 1, a new state law will require people selling copper to purchase a $250 license.
The Recycled Materials Association represents scrap metal businesses and is suing the state over the law, claiming it will effectively shut down Minnesota’s scrap metal industry. It argues the bill is too broad. The association says it worries the law will deter people from recycling.
Comments