Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Legislation Passes off the House Floor

(KNSI) — The Minnesota House passed a bill Monday cracking down on catalytic converter thefts.

Catalytic converters use precious metals in their center, or “core,” and are regularly targeted for theft due to the high value of these metals. The black-market price for catalytic converters can be above $1,000 each. The theft of catalytic converters has become increasingly popular because of their value, relative ease of stealing, and lack of identifying markings.

The measure would require a catalytic converter to bear the VIN of the vehicle to which it was attached. Dealers would be banned from accepting detached converters without one, and those who do would be held accountable and subject to fines and/or jail time.

Representative Ruth Richardson authored the bill. “This legislation is a collective response from our constituents who are calling on us to do more to prevent catalytic converter theft,” said Rep. Richardson. “Minnesota ranks in the top five for catalytic converter theft insurance claims. These thefts are hurting Minnesotans pocketbooks as replacements costs can exceed $2,000. This bill will provide additional tools to law enforcement to crack down on these thefts including large scale criminal enterprises.”

In November, the U.S. Department of Justice arrested and charged 21 people in nine states, including Minnesota, connected to a more than half-billion dollar catalytic converter theft ring.

The bill passed 113-15 and now moves to the Senate.

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