MO HB729

Requires scrap metal dealers to maintain separate written or electronic records for each transaction involving copper, brass, bronze, aluminum wire/components, farming materials containing copper/aluminum, and catalytic converters.

Records must include seller's photo identification, current address, gender, birth date, photograph, transaction date/time/location, vehicle license plate number, metal description with weight and purchase price, and photographs of copper or catalytic converter items.

Requires records to be maintained for 24 months and submitted to an automated database accessible to law enforcement agencies beginning January 1, 2014.

Establishes payment requirements: dealers paying $500 or more must use a prenumbered check or automated payment system with photographic documentation; cash payments require photographing the seller.

Violations are class B misdemeanor for first offense (up to $500 fine), class A misdemeanor for second offense (up to $1,000 fine), and class D felony for third and subsequent offenses (up to $5,000 fine and revocation of state business licenses); persons selling stolen scrap metal are liable for consequential damages.