Ohio bill aims to tighten catalytic converter theft laws

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In an effort to curb the rise in catalytic converter thefts, Ohio lawmakers are considering a bill that would impose stricter requirements on the sale and purchase of these car parts.

House Bill 328, recently reintroduced, would require scrap dealers and others buying used catalytic converters to follow more stringent recordkeeping, reporting and processing procedures. Companies violating the rules could face fines ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.

The bill also targets dealers of scrap motor vehicles, prohibiting them from purchasing or accepting catalytic converters altogether. It further gives licensing authorities the power to refuse, revoke or refuse to renew the licenses of scrappers and repair shops that do not comply with the converter laws.

The legislation comes amid an increase in catalytic converter thefts across Ohio, targeting both individuals and businesses. These parts are valued for the valuable metals they contain, including platinum, palladium and rhodium. Their prices have skyrocketed in recent years, making them a lucrative target for thieves.

Rising metal prices Fuel theft

Catalytic converters contain platinum group metals (PGM) used to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles. These metals are not only essential for clean air, but also extremely expensive, with rhodium prices even exceeding gold. The high cost of PGM combined with the ease of stealing and selling converters has created a tempting opportunity for criminals.

Targeted vulnerabilities

HB 328 strengthens previously introduced provisions aimed at reducing catalytic converter theft. The Act requires sellers to present documentation confirming the origin of the catalytic converter, including the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the car from which it comes. If such information is not available, sellers must provide detailed identification information.

To further deter theft, the law establishes a 48-hour waiting period between the sale of the converter and the receipt of payment. This window gives law enforcement time to investigate potential thefts.

Applicable Laws

Ohio’s Vehicle Anti-Tampering Law already prohibits activities involving devices that bypass emission control systems, including catalytic converters. Violators of the law could face civil liability.