MS SB2582

Adds definition of "agricultural equipment" to include farm tractors, all-terrain vehicles, and farm machinery used in livestock, poultry, crop production, and soil cultivation for purposes of scrap metal theft law.

Includes agricultural equipment within the definition of "metal property" subject to scrap metal dealer record-keeping and holding requirements.

Establishes tiered felony penalties for scrap metal violations: up to 5 years imprisonment and $10,000 fine for transactions exceeding $1,000-$5,000; up to 10 years for transactions exceeding $5,000-$25,000; up to 20 years for transactions exceeding $25,000.

Requires scrap metal dealers to maintain records for 2 years, hold purchased metal property for 3 business days, obtain photographs with date/time stamps, and verify seller identification and ownership.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.