This bill aims to reduce theft of catalytic converters and other car parts that contain precious metals. It defines catalytic converters, requires new vehicles to include marked converters tied to the vehicle identification number (VIN), and directs the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to update theft-prevention rules. It creates a federal grant program to pay for die or pin stamping and high-visibility, high-heat paint for converters. The bill requires businesses that buy used parts to keep seller ID and vehicle information for at least two years, bans sale or purchase of converters with removed or tampered markings, and requires purchases to use a traceable payment method (no cash or cryptocurrency). The Attorney General and NHTSA must write regulations to implement these rules. The bill adds new federal crimes and penalties, including up to 5 years in prison for stealing catalytic converters or knowingly trafficking in stolen converters, and it expands the definition of "chop shop."
No publicly available information on proponents' statements beyond the bill text. The bill text shows sponsors seek to prevent catalytic converter theft by marking parts, tracking sales, funding stamping programs, and increasing penalties.
No publicly available information on opponents' statements beyond the bill text. The bill text does not include debate, analysis, or stated objections.