CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFTS: New York State Legislation Aimed At Robberies Of Valuable Auto Part Awaits Governor’s Signature

ALBANY, NY: A new piece of legislation will hopefully slow the thefts of expensive, highly-sought catalytic converters across New York.

The state Legislature has passed a bill to impose restrictions on the purchase, sale and possession of the automotive device by vehicle dismantlers, scrap processors, and others.

The bill represents a work in progress and that the longterm goal is for national auto manufacturers and car dealers to make sure that catalytic converters are etched and logged in much the same way that airbags are. 

After passing the Senate and Assembly, the bill awaits the final approval of Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The ease of removing these devices from vehicles and the valuable precious metals used in catalytic converters has made this particular item a prime target for thieves.

Junk yards and scrap processors would be required to keep and file detailed records on the sellers of these devices within 60 days or face increased fines.

New motor vehicle dealers and automobile dealers will also be required to stock catalytic converter etching kits for new motor vehicles at a cost that can’t exceed the value of the etching kit.

These new restrictions and record-keeping requirements for catalytic converters would take effect 180 days after being signed into law.

Catalytic converters are exhaust emission control devices that reduce toxic gasses and pollutants in exhaust gas from internal combustion engines into less-toxic pollutants, and are worth more than $300 on the black market as they contain precious metals including platinum, palladium, and rhodium.