The owner of one local scrap yard said a proposed law might put him out of business. The bill would regulate scrap dealers, at a time when police say higher metal prices have become enticing for thieves looking for some quick cash.

Stan Morris, who has operated L and M Northside Recycling in North Topeka for just over a year, said the bill would turn customers away. But, police said it would decrease crime in the city.

“The problem is there are already laws on the books,” said Morris. “We don’t need any new laws. We just just need to enforce the laws we have.”

Morris said business at his scrapyard would become difficult if lawmakers proceed with the bill.

“It would be a huge headache,” he said. “It would probably put us out of business.”

The bill would require junk dealers to keep a detailed log of everything they take in. They would be required to get thumbprints and photocopies of identification from anyone selling metal. The dealers would also have to keep any aluminum or copper for at least 15 days after it’s brought in. Morris said that’s a big problem, because he doesn’t have enough room to store it all.

He said his business is a service to Topekans, allowing them to exchange their scrap for money. He’s afraid the law would send the wrong message to customers.

“If people are somehow going to realize it’s a hassle to recycle, they’re just going to quit recycling,” Morris said.

But, police said the requirements for scrap yards would serve as a deterrent to crime and make it easier to track down thieves. The law has a long way to go before it becomes reality. It hasn’t made it to the full legislature.

Topeka recycling yards report copper is selling for about $1.80 a pound, up from 65 cents five years ago. Aluminum is selling for about 45 cents a pound.

The biggest source of metal theft is copper stolen from church and business air conditioner units, Topeka police said.