Bill > SB6190

This bill strengthens protections for critical infrastructure by expanding regulations on scrap metal businesses and creating a new felony for the destruction of communications infrastructure. Scrap metal businesses will be required to take photographs of nonferrous metal property and its markings during transactions, digitally upload transaction information to a state-approved database, and will face increased civil penalties for dealing in stolen copper used in telecommunication cables, with a third violation leading to license revocation. The bill also clarifies payment methods for scrap metal transactions, generally prohibiting cash and requiring payment via stored value devices, electronic funds transfer, or nontransferable checks mailed to the seller's address, with exceptions for commercial accounts and small cash payments up to $30 under specific conditions. Furthermore, it introduces a new crime, "destruction of critical communications infrastructure," defined as intentionally damaging or rendering inoperable physical or cyber components of communication systems, which is classified as a class C felony, and allows for civil lawsuits against perpetrators to recover damages and legal fees.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6190&Year=2025&Initiative=false