On Feb. 5, the House Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on legislation that would help our community combat the growing problem of metal theft. Along with many other public officials, advocacy organizations, and concerned citizens, I testified in favor of its passage.

Metal and wire theft is growing problem in the 30th Legislative District and across Washington state. Since 2009, incidents of metal theft have increased by 81 percent. Federal Way reported a loss of $110,000 last year in stolen metal and wire. These crimes affect every resident of our community. These thieves target parks and public utilities, schools and streets, farms and food banks. They hurt our families and our businesses. The bill being heard stiffens penalties on metal and wire thieves, authorizes law enforcement agencies to inspect licensed scrap metal dealers inventory for stolen wares, and implements an electronic statewide no-buy list of previous dealers who have violated the law. By passing it we can significantly cut down on metal-theft crime.

At the hearing I joined my friends and former colleagues Mayor Skip Priest, Deputy Mayor Jim Ferrell and city staff in providing testimony. Together we advocated strongly for the passage of this bill, and will continue to do so through the legislative process.

It’s an honor to work on your behalf to ensure that Federal Way remains a safe and beautiful place to live.

Roger Freeman, State Representative, 30th Legislative District