Bill > S202

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for secondary metals dealers, aiming to improve consumer protection and professional licensure in this industry. Key provisions include the creation of a centralized, computerized "Secondary Metals Registry" managed by the criminal record review board, which will store information on metal transactions and violations of the new chapter 140B½. This registry will be accessible to law enforcement agencies and funded by a dedicated "Secondary Metals Registry Trust Fund," which will receive a portion of fines collected from violations. The bill also mandates standardized forms for reporting transactions, requires dealers to maintain detailed records of all purchases, and outlines penalties for violations, including fines and potential license revocation for repeat offenders. Furthermore, it defines "secondary metals dealing" and "secondary metals dealer" and requires licensing authorities, such as police chiefs, to issue licenses and conduct inspections. The bill also introduces a two-year pilot program for a "Massachusetts abandoned property registry" to track vacant or foreclosing properties.