Alberta introduces bill implementing new regulations for scrap metal sales

On June 18, 2020, the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General of Alberta introduced Bill-25, Protecting Alberta Industry from Theft Act, 2020.

Please note that Bill-25 has only been introduced to the provincial legislature. It still has to be pass to become law.

Objective

To combat rural crime (part of the government’s greater commitment to combating rural crime), the Alberta government has introduced regulations to control the sale and purchase of scrap metals.

Impact on scrap metal dealers

• Input each transaction of the purchase or receipt of restricted metals within 24-hours into a central database. This information is for law enforcement.
• Cash payments prohibited in the purchase of scrap metal; only traceable currency permitted.
• Identification requirements for sellers and record-keeping duties for dealers.
• Sellers must be 18 years or older.
• Increased fines for individuals and corporations.

If passed, there will be a staggered implementation:

September 1, 2020

• Provisions will define the types of scrap metal included in reporting rules.
• Requirement for sellers to provide government-issued photo ID.
• Requirement for dealers to record the seller’s ID information and details of the transaction
• Implementation of fines for non-compliance.

November 1, 2020

• Requirement for dealers to report transactions to law enforcement
• Cash payments for scrap metals prohibited.