Pawn brokers in Moncton want the provincial government to regulate the industry to help them get rid of the reputation they have dealing with stolen goods.
Currently, the municipalities are responsible for regulating pawn shops and secondhand stores. Some owners want the provincial governments to start regulating the industry or at least for municipalities to better enforce current regulations
“There’s just no regulations in the industry. We apply for a license but there’s no teeth behind the licensing that we apply for. There are some rules but they’re not being enforced… you can do whatever you want more or less,” Bill Daigle, manager of Parlour Pawn said.
The city bylaw states that every pawnbroker shall keep a permanent record of information such as: an accurate and detailed description of each item taken as a pledge or pawn and all markings, serial numbers, make or model of the property. The problem is, that’s rarely done, according to Daigle,
“What should be required is the need to send a list to the police on a daily or weekly basis. Cooperate with the police… we’re part of their team. Bylaws are only valuable when there enforced,” Daigle said.
The city says their pawnshop bylaws are currently under review.