Telecommunications wire and valuable metal dealers.
What changed between versions
The definition of 'telecommunications network equipment' was broadened to include towers, antennae, bus bars, and ground support structures, not just wire.
A new term 'burned wire' was defined to clarify that wire stripped by smelting, burning, or melting is still considered telecommunications network equipment.
A new penalty was added creating a Class A infraction for anyone who sells or attempts to sell telecom equipment without meeting specific authorization requirements.
A new Level 6 felony was created for a person who knowingly or intentionally fails to follow valuable metal dealer laws while purchasing stolen telecom equipment.
Requirements for sellers were updated to allow amateur radio license holders and retail sellers with proof of ownership to sell equipment, replacing the previous list of authorized entities.
The effective date for the new provisions was updated to July 1, 2026.
