Bill > HB4598

This bill makes several key changes to address catalytic converter theft in Texas: It increases criminal penalties for damaging or stealing a catalytic converter, creates a new offense for unauthorized possession of a catalytic converter, and adds catalytic converter theft-related offenses to the list of crimes that can constitute engaging in organized criminal activity. The bill also requires metal recycling entities to maintain detailed records of catalytic converter transactions and allows for administrative penalties if they fail to exercise due diligence in acquiring catalytic converters. Additionally, it requires the insurance commissioner to establish a premium discount for vehicles with effective anti-theft devices for catalytic converters, and directs several state agencies to coordinate efforts to detect and prevent catalytic converter theft.