It just got tougher for criminals to cash in on stolen metals.

A new law signed by Governor Nathan Deal creates a database of recyclers and the items turned in for payment.

Effective immediately, recycle payments will now be paid with a check or a voucher - not cash.

Gwinnett County State Senator Renee Unterman hauled a cart or copper wiring and urns stolen from graves to counter critics who called her bill "too burdensome on the recycling industry.

"They have dumped millions of dollars into the General Assembly trying to fight legislation," Unterman said.  "I said why don't you come to the table and clean up your act and then you wouldn't bee here.  Hopefully this time the message will get through.

Unterman said requiring payment by check or voucher disables drug dealers who steal expensive metal to turn a fast buck.