Tougher rules on scrap metal sales contested by industry DETROIT, May 3 (UPI) -- Michigan lawmakers say they are considering legislation prosecutors contend is necessary to curb a rising number of scrap metal thefts. Scrap yard operators are fighting the proposal, which they contend is punitive toward legitimate operators, The Detroit News reported Friday. The package of bills would tighten rules on how scrap metal is bought and sold. Scrap yard owners could pay only with a check for some items, and the seller would have to have a street address, not a post office box. Scrap yards would have to list the name of the employee accepting the material and the items being accepted. Under current law, buying or selling scrap metal known to be stolen is a felony punishable by five years in prison. Democratic state Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a sponsor of the legislation, said prosecutors tell her they can't file many cases because of a lack of evidence. "We're asking them [scrap metal operators] to do a little bit more," she said. Scrap yard owner Mike Racey said the legislation will be ineffective and complained his industry is being "picked on." Legitimate businesses don't buy scrap they know is stolen, he said, and more regulation will only push sales of stolen metal further underground.