Legislation Aims to Curb Copper Wire Theft in Minnesota

New legislation proposes measures to combat copper wire theft, which is causing infrastructure issues across Minnesota. St. Paul, in particular, has been severely affected. The bill, supported by Rep. Athena Hollins, seeks to require sellers of copper wire to be licensed with the state. Wholesalers would need to verify these permits before completing transactions, with penalties for non-compliance. The legislation is seen as a necessary statewide solution to a problem that impacts communities and businesses statewide.