SB 1387 Summary

• Prohibits junk dealers and recyclers from possessing fire hydrants, manhole covers, backflow devices, and their parts unless they have written certification from the owning public agency or utility authorizing the sale.

• Requires junk dealers or recyclers who unknowingly receive prohibited materials to notify law enforcement by the end of the next business day upon discovery, with written confirmation relieving them from civil or criminal penalties.

• Expands existing law to impose a criminal fine of up to $3,000 on any person engaged in salvage, recycling, purchase, or sale of scrap metal who knowingly possesses stolen fire hydrants, fire department connections, manhole covers, or backflow devices.

• Establishes that violating these provisions constitutes a misdemeanor and creates state-mandated local program obligations for law enforcement notification and investigation.

• Effective September 27, 2012.