By Angela Hatton
Frankfort, KY – A state law aimed at deterring metal thieves takes effect today. House Bill 242 prohibits anyone from buying or selling metal that has been smelted, burned, or melted. The law comes on the heels of near-record high prices for copper and other metals. Kentucky Attorney General Jack Conway says that has fueled the theft of common items such as copper wiring from utility lines, tornado warning sirens, coal mines, and even foreclosed homes. The bill passed unanimously during the 2011 legislative session.