|
Hello from the State Capitol,
?
In an effort to address the growing number of catalytic converter thefts across the state, I am co-authoring legislation that would hold these criminals accountable.
?
Catalytic converter theft is not just a Minneapolis problem. We are seeing them stolen in every county in our state, and it?s time we do something about it.
?
Catalytic converters contain valuable metals, which is why they are popular with thieves. They are also very expensive for the car owner to replace.
?
This bill would make possession of an unauthorized catalytic converter a crime. It would create a misdemeanor offense for possessing a used catalytic converter that is not attached to a motor vehicle unless it was marked with a date of removal and the vehicle?s ID number, or has not been certified for reuse as a replacement part by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The crime would become a gross misdemeanor if the person possessed more than one catalytic converter. Anyone convicted of the crime would also be forced to pay restitution to any identifiable victim.
?
The bill is based off local ordinances that have been approved by a number of cities in Minnesota, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Shakopee.
?
The catalytic converter legislation awaits a hearing in the Minnesota House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee.
?
Have a good weekend,
?
Marj
|
