Bill > S08302

This bill, known as the "prevention of damage to critical infrastructure act of 2026," aims to protect essential services by making it unlawful for junk dealers and scrap processors to sell or purchase certain metal items that are crucial for critical infrastructure providers, which are defined as utility companies, electric plants, cable television companies, internet service providers, cellular telephone companies, and other entities providing public voice or data communications, or public utility authorities. The act amends existing laws to criminalize tampering with property belonging to these providers and imposes stricter record-keeping requirements on junk dealers and scrap processors when purchasing metals, including requiring detailed statements from sellers and copies of government-issued identification. Furthermore, it specifically prohibits the sale or purchase of metal marked with the name, logo, or initials of a critical infrastructure provider, or metal that has been altered to conceal such markings, as well as wire or cable commonly used by these providers, with exceptions for authorized employees of these providers. Violations of these provisions can result in fines, misdemeanor charges, and forfeiture of business licenses.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8302