Wisconsin Considering Catalytic Converter Law

Oct. 12, 2021

If a scrap dealer fails to comply with the new law, they could face a $1,000 fine and/or 90 days in jail.

Oct. 12, 2021—Wisconsin’s state legislature is considering a bill that would make it more difficult to sell catalytic converters, the Wisconsin Public Radio reported. 

Under the new law, anyone selling a catalytic converter to a scrap dealer would need to be 18 years of age and would be required to show personal identification and proof of lawful ownership. Scrap dealers would be required to maintain sales records and when proof of ownership isn't provided, refuse the sale and report the incident to law enforcement within one business day.

If a scrap dealer fails to comply with the new law, they could face a $1,000 fine and/or 90 days in jail. For a second offense, the penalty jumps to $10,000 and up to nine months in jail.

State Representative Clint Moses says converter thefts have risen, especially since Minnesota passed legislation cracking down on the sale of catalytic converters. Thus, thieves from Minnesota are coming over to Wisconsin to steal and sell them. 

About the Author

Ratchet+Wrench Staff Reporters

The Ratchet+Wrench staff reporters have a combined two-plus decades of journalism and mechanical repair experience.

Sponsored Recommendations

Free Resources for Shops Like Yours

View insights, research and solutions curated specifically for shops like yours.

Deliver a First-Class Guest Experience

Our dedicated Valvoline Trusted Advisor Sales and Support Team provides hands-on classroom and targeted in-store coaching to help your employees become more skilled at selling...

State of the Art, Online Training

Valvoline University is a state-of-the-art, online training system with 24/7 accessibility. It’s designed to increase your success by developing your employees in key areas: product...

Valvoline Partner Solutions

We arm you with products that build trust, tools that unlock productivity, and training that drives business performance, so you feel confident in where your...