PA House Passes Bill Against Catalytic Converter Theft

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (WTAJ) — The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has passed a bill to combat catalytic converter theft.

The bill, drafted by State Rep. Mary Isaacson (D-Philadelphia), expands current restrictions on the sale of catalytic converters at scrap metal yards.

The bill will require the following necessary steps before the sale is completed:

• Individuals seeking to sell catalytic converters to scrap yards must provide the year, make, model, and vehicle identification number of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter was removed.
• Buyers of catalytic converters are required to take photographs of both the catalytic converter and the individual selling it at the time of sale.
• Purchaser must hold payment for 48 hours after purchase of catalytic converter is completed.

“Car owners don’t have to pay compensation if someone steals their car. For many families, the cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter is a burden,” Isaacson said. “For many Pennsylvanians, cars are part of their livelihood. .”