California passes bills to reduce catalytic converter theft

On Monday California Governor Gavin Newsom signed two bills aimed at reducing catalytic converter theft in the state.

The new bills SB 1087 and AB 1740 would make it illegal to buy the parts from anyone other than licensed auto dismantlers or dealers. The new bills will force metal recyclers and junk dealers t have detailed records of all sales of catalytic converters and their parts.

The converters are filled with precious metals that can be worth anywhere from a few hundred to over one thousand dollars.

In a video statement on Twitter, Governor Newsom said that catalytic converter theft has increased by ten times since 2018.

CA is taking action to stop catalytic converter theft by requiring recyclers to keep specific records & only allowing used catalytic converters to be sold by authorized parties.

Together, these bills should remove incentives for theft and keep Californians & their cars safer. pic.twitter.com/gz44bxMzzA

— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) September 25, 2022