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http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-legis2-2008sep02,0,230988.storyTrying to solve a more tangible problem, lawmakers moved to crack down on rampant metal theft.
The rising value of aluminum, bronze, copper and other metals has spurred thieves to yank wiring from buildings and air-conditioning units, steal manhole covers and irrigation pumps and destroy statues and fire hydrants. After being sold for quick cash, the metal is often sold again.
Efforts to curb such theft last year failed. This year lawmakers agreed on a measure that would require scrap dealers to get photographs, thumbprints and addresses of sellers and to pay them by check with a three-day delay.
"So much damage is done for so little gain," said Assemblyman Doug La Malfa, a Sacramento Valley Republican. "This is one of the examples of government working well -- finally."Peak everything?
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