Bill Proposes Protections, Penalties Around ‘Cat’ Thefts
Measure has both major parties’ support, along with that of industry leaders.
Thieves target converters, commonly called “cats,” to sell on the black market.
IMAGE: Pexels/Fazli Ahmetaj
Auto industry leaders are pressing lawmakers to pass a bill designed to prevent catalytic converter theft, Transportation Today reported.
Twenty industry groups, including the National Automobile Dealers Association, sent a letter to both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate commerce committees urging passage of the Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act that would require new models’ converters to be stamped with traceable numbers.
The bill would also include a penalty of up to five years in prison for thefts, trafficking sale or known purchase of stolen converters, Transportation Today reported.
Thieves target converters, commonly called “cats,” to sell on the black market.
Thefts of the devices rich in precious metals have soared in recent years. Businesses in the industry have held number-etching events to mark converters as unique with the hope of discouraging thieves. The bipartisan bill now on the table would codify that practice.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Showroom
Focus on Vehicle Cabins
The market for interior materials will grow in coming years as automakers look to meet consumer demand while staying competitive with changeups to sourcing and included features.
Read More →
State Follows Federal Warning on Auto Ads
The Massachusetts attorney general cautioned the state’s automotive dealers to be upfront with the consuming public about their vehicle prices or risk punishment.
Read More →
European EV Market Hits Record
Seven out of the top 10 electric vehicles sold so far in 2026 in Europe are by European brands, and automakers are seeing the power train fill up their order books.
Read More →
Used EVs Outpace New
While North American electric-vehicle sales remain down year-over-year, May sales saw a 3% increase from April’s numbers as used EVs led the market.
Read More →
New Vehicles Down for Most Brands
Healthy May sales cut into inventory as automakers kept a tight reign on supply, though some brands ended the month with excess units on the ground.
Read More →
Auto Prices Ride May Moderation
Flat ATPs and asking prices clocked in below long-term averages for the month, though some segments saw significant price gains, reported Cox Automotive.
Read More →
Mitsubishi Sets Growth Strategy, Structural Transformation
The Japanese automaker aims to 'strengthen products and technologies that embody its brand identity,' focus on its strongest markets and expand value-chain businesses 'that leverage its unique strengths.'
Read More →
Affordable, Safe Cars for Teen Drivers
Families looking to balance affordability and safety in vehicles for their teen drivers can look to the updated list of recommended vehicles by IIHS and Consumer Reports.
Read More →
Auto Dealers Feel Better But Not Great
A second-quarter Cox Automotive poll of franchised retailers and independents found better views of the current market after a good spring but anticipation of third-quarter storminess.
Read More →
Holman Opens Porsche Dealership in Miami
The North Miami store features the brand’s signature Destination Porsche design concept, combining contemporary architecture and technology to create what the auto group calls an ultra-luxury experience.
Read More →