Bill > HB5059

This bill addresses the illegal sale and possession of catalytic converters by modifying existing Texas law to create new criminal offenses. The bill expands the legal presumptions of lawful catalytic converter possession to include not just vehicle owners, but also those authorized by the vehicle owner. More significantly, it introduces a new criminal offense making it illegal to sell a catalytic converter removed from a motor vehicle to anyone other than a registered metal recycling entity. Selling a catalytic converter to an unauthorized person would now be classified as a state jail felony, which is a serious criminal charge. The provision applies to all persons, including those already involved in the metal recycling industry, and allows for potential prosecution under both this new law and other existing laws. By creating these restrictions, the bill aims to discourage the theft and unauthorized resale of catalytic converters, which have become a frequent target for theft due to the valuable metals they contain. The new legal provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving businesses and law enforcement time to prepare for the changed regulations.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5059