New York Signs New Bill to Curb Catalytic Converter Theft

As cases of catalytic converter theft continue to rise in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a new bill aimed at illegal vehicle dismantlers.

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In a press release on Monday, Governor Hochul announced that she had signed a bill to restrict the purchase, sale and possession of catalytic converters. The number of catalytic converter thefts has increased dramatically nationwide over the last two years as the value for the metals used for the part has skyrocketed.

The bill changes the classification of catalytic converters to make them a major component vehicle part, requiring businesses to maintain records and report the number of catalytic converters they receive every 60 days. Failing to do so will be a Class A misdemeanor.

Car dealers will also be required to stock catalytic converter etching kits to make tracking stolen parts easier.

Catalytic converter thefts have become a costly nuisance for car owners and insurance companies. While the part itself is very expensive, the illegal and careless removal of catalytic converters can also break other parts in a car's engine.

"Public safety is my top priority, and we're taking an aggressive, targeted approach to deter criminals from stealing catalytic converters," said Governor Hochul. "Catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed across our state and nation, and these comprehensive actions double down on our efforts to keep New Yorkers and their property safe, protecting our communities and cracking down on crime."

While the bill doesn't take aim at the thieves directly, it should make offloading a stolen catalytic converter much more difficult.