Bill > HB210

This bill aims to strengthen regulations surrounding the sale of used catalytic converters in Ohio, addressing a growing problem of catalytic converter theft. The legislation introduces several key provisions: First, it increases penalties for stealing or illegally receiving catalytic converters, with fines escalating for repeat offenders and additional penalties for business entities. Second, it requires detailed documentation and proof of ownership when selling a used catalytic converter, including providing specific identification, photographs, and ownership verification. Third, the bill establishes stricter registration and recordkeeping requirements for scrap metal dealers and businesses that purchase used catalytic converters, mandating them to maintain comprehensive transaction records and report daily transactions electronically to a state registry. Dealers are prohibited from purchasing more than one catalytic converter per day from the same person, except from licensed motor vehicle dealers. The legislation also empowers the director of public safety to investigate and potentially suspend or revoke registrations of dealers who violate these regulations. Additionally, the bill creates provisions for civil penalties, with fines ranging from $500 to $50,000 depending on the specific violation, and allows for potential injunctions against repeat offenders. These comprehensive measures are designed to make it more difficult to sell stolen catalytic converters and to provide law enforcement with better tools to track and prevent this type of theft.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb210