Walker Backs Effort to Stop Catalytic Converter Theft

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. – Scrap yards and metal recyclers will be required to review and record the identification of catalytic converter part sellers under a plan backed by state Rep. Mark Walker, D-Arlington Heights, which is headed to the governor for approval.

“There’s been a significant increase in catalytic converter thefts nationwide because people saw it as an opportunity to make a quick buck,” Walker said. “The result is innocent residents are not just losing their transportation, they’re having to deal with the hassle of insurance and expensive repairs.”

Walker backed House Bill 107, which will require scrap yards and metal recyclers to review and record the identification of catalytic converter sellers. In the event a seller does not possess a Secretary of State issued license identifying them as an automotive parts recycler or scrap processor, the seller will be required to fill out a 1099-MISC tax form by the purchaser. If a catalytic converter is valued at more than $100, buyers would be prohibited from making a cash purchase.

“This law will create a needed paper trail that will make thieves think twice,” Walker said. “It’s a needed deterrent, we have to stop catalytic converter theft from getting further out of control.”