Alameda Point Antiques and Collectibles Faire 2012

The collecting and trading of antiques and used items is the best form of recycling.  Attendees at antiques shows, fairs and flea markets enjoy their hobby and for many it is their occupation.

The very existence of these activities are threatened by California Assembly Bill No. 391 introduced by Assembly Member Pan with coauthors Cannella, Strickland, Walters and Yee.  This bill would require all Dealers in “second hand” goods to purchase a special license and would cause the creation of a statewide electronic database into which each dealer would be required to report:  “Many categories of tangible personal property” acquired within 24 hours.  It would also require that the dealer provide the identification of the seller of the property along with a fingerprint of the seller.  While these reporting requirements are already on the books they are enforced at the discretion of local jurisdictions.  Cities such as Alameda, who recognize the value of events such as our Antique Faire, do not enforce these rules.  If this bill passes it is the beginning of the end for the entire activity of buying and selling antiques, collectibles and used merchandise as the regulation would force a majority of those small independent business persons (such as you see in every booth at our Antique Faire) out of business.