The Washington House of Representatives Saturday passed legislation to stem the sharp rise in catalytic converter thefts across Washington state. HB 1815 requires a scrap metal business engaging in a transaction involving a catalytic converter removed from a vehicle to record documentation indicating that it came from a vehicle registered in the seller’s name.
“Stolen catalytic converters contain precious metals which can be sold for quick cash,” said 32nd District Rep. Cindy Ryu, the legislation’s lead sponsor. “The amount that thieves receive for a stolen catalytic converter is typically around 10 percent of the total costs suffered by the owners of the vehicles they are stolen from.”
Older vehicles, Ryu added, “are effectively totaled by catalytic converter theft, compounding the harm for people who depend on their vehicle to get to work, or to drive their kids to school.
“All of our constituents are finding higher prices at the grocery store, and policymakers have a responsibility to do all we can to keep supply chains moving. The trucking industry is begging us to help prevent catalytic converter thefts from further breaking down the delivery of goods and food. That’s why I am pleased by the bipartisan vote, but surprised it wasn’t unanimous,” Ryu continued.
The bill also requires the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs to establish a program to assist local law enforcement agencies for special enforcement of metal theft, an important measure to crack down on catalytic converter theft and illegal sales.
“I will make sure the Transportation Budget includes funding for a grant program to assist local agencies crack down on catalytic converter theft and catch the people responsible for this cruel crime which hurts our seniors and lowest income families the most. I was proud to vote for this bill which I hope will provide some peace of mind to families,” said 27th District Rep. Jake Fey, who chairs the House Transportation Committee.
The bill passed the House 68-30.
Copper wire and copper pipes should be subject to the same scrutiny.
Agreed Richard. I lived in Ohio in the 80’s – 90’s when copper theft started gaining steam. A Friend and I had acquired some old copper while demolishing an old house and we were thoroughly checked out before the scrap yard would take it. Photo IDs and a rather lengthy form to fill out detailing how we got it.
I hate to be cynical but I really don’t view this as a well thought out solution. First, thieves already move and sell these materials across state lines. Second, document forgery is extremely easy in this digital age so crooks will figure out a work around quickly. This is a big time illicit business enterprise that should fall under the RICO statute. The cost to our society in terms of insurance premiums, loss of use, time and convivence is considerable. IMHO, passing laws that go after the common thief is ineffective and a shameful legislative process.