Hoffman Targets Telecommunications Wire Thieves

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A new law led by state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, is targeting telecommunications wire thieves by restricting who can sell and purchase the wire, as well as banning cash purchases of $100 or more at recyclable metal dealers.

“Telecommunications wire can contain copper, and unfortunately thieves see it as an easy opportunity to make a quick buck,” Hoffman said. “This can cause disruptions for telecommunications providers and their customers, so we’re taking action.”

Hoffman’s House Bill 4943 updates the state’s Recyclable Metal Purchase Registration Law by making it a violation to sell or purchase telecommunications wire unless the seller is an authorized agent of a licensed contractor of a public utility or telecommunications service.

It also updates existing law that prohibited recyclable metal dealers from paying cash for copper, including copper tubing or wiring, that has a value of $100 or more. House Bill 4943 clarifies that this prohibition also applies to telecommunications wire.

“We want to eliminate the financial incentives driving this behavior from bad actors,” Hoffman said. “I appreciate the strong bipartisan support this legislation received, it’s important that we continue to look at ways to deter these thieves.”

House Bill 4943 will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.

For more information, please contact RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.