TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Scrap thieves who do more than $5,000 worth of damage in stealing precious metals would face jail time under a bill endorsed by a House panel.

The House Judiciary Committee endorsed the measure on a voice vote Monday.

Supporters of the bill say that tougher penalties are needed because scrap thieves often do thousands of dollars in damage to worksites and agricultural equipment. The damage can sometimes disable equipment allowing crops to spoil before it can be repaired.

Current state laws give such offenders probation if they do not have serious criminal records. The measure would put most behind bars.

Some lawmakers expressed concern with the bill, however, because it is estimated that it would increase the state’s already overcapacity prison population by 20 to 57 prisoners by 2025.