Lawmakers look to clamp down on catalytic converter theft

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Florida lawmakers are considering legislation to help law enforcement crackdown on catalytic converter thefts as they have skyrocketed over the last several years.

The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice unanimously approved the legislation (SB 306) sponsored by Republican Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, Tuesday. A companion House bill is in committee Wednesday.

“Anyone who steals a catalytic converter – or is involved in the unlawful transaction of one will be prosecuted,” Boyd said in a press release.

Catalytic converters can be removed from under most vehicles and are comprised of valuable metals. A new converter can cost upwards of $1,000.

The bill increases the punishments for unlawful transactions. Those involved in catalytic converter transactions will need to provide proof of ownership or face charges of a third-degree felony, according to the press release. Individuals pushing fake, counterfeit or junk-filled catalytic converters could face second-degree felony charges.

“I am grateful to Florida’s law enforcement officers for keeping our communities safe, and I’m confident this legislation will support our men and women in blue by putting a stop to the rising theft of catalytic converters,” Boyd said.

The converters are part of a car’s exhaust system that converts harmful engine-exhaust pollutants into something less harmful through a chemical reaction. Catalytic converter thefts have exploded by more than 1,000% in a few years, according to a Carfax report.

The bill aims to prevent theft by requiring people involved in the transaction of a catalytic converter to keep records that prove ownership.

The Senate Appropriations Committee on Civil and Criminal Justice is expected to hear Boyd’s bill.