Rep. Zawistowski Supports Measure to Increase Penalties for the Theft of Waste Vegetable Oil or Animal Fats

HARTFORD – State Representative Tami Zawistowski (R-61) alongside Suffield resident and local businessman Terrence Plakias testified in support of HB 7107 ‘An Act Concerning the Theft of Waste Vegetable Oil or Animal Fats’ before the General Assembly’s Judiciary Committee on Friday, February 15^th.

Waste cooking oil is legally collected by recycling companies and processed for use as biodiesel, soap and other products. Thieves break into collection areas behind restaurants and supermarkets, siphon the oil into makeshift tanks inside vehicles such as vans, and illegally transport it on local roads and highways, with leakage also a major concern. This theft results in economic loss to both the producers of the waste oil and to recycling companies, and causes concerns about safe and proper disposal.

The legislation would increase the penalty for theft of waste vegetable oil or animal fats to 4^th Degree Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor. The majority of those arrested for theft of waste vegetable oil and animal fats are charged with 6^th Degree Larceny the lowest degree in Connecticut law.

In his testimony, Terrence Plakias noted his company recorded nearly 2000 known or suspected thefts in Connecticut in 2018. He commented, “Used cooking oil theft is an obscure but real threat to the economic vitality of our state and its communities. Legislative action to enhance the penalties and increase the risk of engaging in this criminal activity will act as a significant deterrent.”

For more information or to track the legislation visit the General Assembly’s website at www.cga.ct.gov.