Topeka ? A proposal by a Lawrence legislator would require that second-hand stores maintain records of their purchases and that people selling goods show identification.

House Bill 2059, by Rep. Tom Sloan, R-Lawrence, has the support of Lawrence police who say they are facing an increasing problem in tracking down stolen property.

“Several sets of burglars we have dealt with know which stores in town have the weakest recording systems, or recording systems that they can manipulate so they do not have to present identification for their transaction,” said Detective M.T. Brown in written testimony to the House Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee.

The bill would require that anyone selling items to a second-hand store show identification that shows their name, age, sex and address. If a minor were selling, they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who would have to show ID.

The measure would require second-hand stores, including pawnbrokers, to keep a register of all purchases, the seller’s address, sex and age, a copy of the seller’s identification card, and a general description of the goods received. The bill would not apply to organizations, such as Goodwill, that receive donated goods.

The proposal carries a $100 fine for the first violation and $500 for each subsequent violation.

Brown said some businesses in Lawrence have complained about other businesses not taking information, receiving stolen property and increasing their inventory.

“This sets up an unfair advantage for businesses with less-than-credible business practices,” he said.