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HB 900

Copper materials; prohibit transactions between certain sellers and scrap metal dealers and other purchases.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Earle Banks

Mississippi bill prohibits certain sellers from transacting copper with scrap dealers to reduce theft incentives; died in committee.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 900

Legislative bill overview

HB 900 would prohibit certain sellers from conducting transactions with scrap metal dealers and restrict other copper material purchases in Mississippi. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, after being referred to the Business and Commerce Committee on January 17, 2025.

Why is this important

Copper theft is a persistent problem in many states, as thieves target electrical wiring, plumbing, and air conditioning units for resale to scrap dealers. Restricting who can sell copper to scrap metal dealers aims to reduce theft incentives by limiting the market for illegally obtained materials, potentially protecting property owners and critical infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "certain sellers": The bill's scope is unclear without the full text—it's uncertain which sellers would face restrictions (individuals, unlicensed dealers, etc.) and whether the categories are too broad or too narrow to be effective
  • Due process concerns: Prohibitions on legitimate transactions could burden law-abiding citizens and small scrap dealers if the criteria for restricted sellers aren't precisely defined
  • Market impacts: Restrictions on copper sales could affect legitimate scrap recycling businesses, metal salvage operations, and the secondary materials market

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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