Legislation to Combat Catalytic Converter Theft Signed into Law

State Representative Bill Romer (R-Richfield) is pleased to announce that Governor DeWine signed House Bill 210, legislation to protect Ohioans from catalytic converter theft, into Ohio law.

The bill, spearheaded by Representatives Roemer and Phil Plummber (R-Dayton), intends to better protect consumers from catalytic converter theft, equip law enforcement, and create more transparent guidelines for businesses. Catalytic converters take about three minutes to steal and appeal to those who need cash fast, as they contain precious metals.

Key provisions of House Bill 210 are as follows: 

• Requires scrap metal dealers and other buyers of used catalytic converters to comply with recordkeeping, reporting, and transaction requirements and establishes penalties for noncompliance.
• Expands the authority and responsibilities of the Director of Public Safety related to the oversight and investigation of scrap metal dealers and other buyers of used catalytic converters.
• Prohibits motor vehicle salvage dealers from purchasing or accepting catalytic converters.
• Creates new criminal offenses for the theft of and receipt of stolen catalytic converters. 

“Catalytic converter theft has been a scourge on our communities, impacting thousands of working families across Ohio,” said Roemer. “HB 210 will go a long way toward combating these thefts by requiring proof of ownership and making it harder for thieves to profit from stolen converters.”

House Bill 210 is now enrolled.