May 19, 2022—Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has signed Public Act 22-43 into law. This action will bring about new requirements for the state surrounding how motor vehicle recyclers, junk dealers, junkyard owners, scrap metal processors, and vehicle repair shops take in and sell catalytic converters.
According to a press release, this law was approved in an effort to cut down on catalytic converter thefts throughout the state.
The law will in part make it illegal for motor vehicle recyclers to receive a vehicle's catalytic converter unless it is attached to a vehicle.
Recyclers must either affix or write a stock number on the catalytic converter part, and make a written record of the transaction. This written record needs to include the name and address of the customer, as well as their telephone number, license number, and VIN number.
In order for scrap metal processors, junk dealers, and junkyard owners and operators to accept a catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle, they must first perform a number of tasks.
This includes recording the place and date of the transaction, as well as a description of the catalytic converter and the full amount paid. They must also obtain the seller's name, address, and driver's license number.
Just like the recyclers, they must also affix a stock number to the converter. They also need to record the license plate used to transport the part, obtain a statement from the seller of ownership and take a photograph of the individual selling the part and their driver's license.
Sellers can only sell one catalytic converter to a scrap metal dealer per day. Sellers can only be paid by a check mailed to their home address.
Scrap metal processors and junk dealers are required to electronically submit their catalytic converter information to the Connecticut State Police once a week.
This new law takes effect on July 1, 2022.
