SENATE MEMORIAL 48

51st legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2013

INTRODUCED BY

Clemente Sanchez

A MEMORIAL

REQUESTING AN INTERIM LEGISLATIVE STUDY OF THE THEFT OF MERCHANDISE SHELLS AND PALLETS.

     WHEREAS, last year, approximately one hundred thousand merchandise shells and pallets, both wood and plastic, were stolen from the members of the New Mexico beverage association with a replacement value in excess of two million five hundred thousand dollars ($2,500,000); and

     WHEREAS, the food and beverage industry must pay the cost of replacing these valuable products and ultimately pass these costs along to consumers; and

     WHEREAS, thousands of stolen merchandise shells and pallets are found in recycling facilities clearly identified and stamped with company names; and

     WHEREAS, recycling companies in New Mexico are currently not required to obtain the identity of the sellers; and

     WHEREAS, other states, such as Texas, Ohio and Michigan, have passed legislation requiring recyclers to obtain the identity of anyone selling more than ten beverage industry shells and pallets; and

     WHEREAS, other states require recyclers to retain seller information for one year in order for law enforcement to investigate potential stolen goods;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the appropriate interim legislative committee be requested to explore issues related to theft of merchandise shells and pallets in New Mexico; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the co-chairs of the New Mexico legislative council.

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