Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – Freshman Representative Jackson Sayama along with several state lawmakers are looking to put an end to the growing problem of thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles. Catalytic converters contain precious metals which police say thieves steal and then sell as the price of metal skyrockets.
House Bill 446 would place new requirements on the buyer and seller of catalytic converters and increase fines for violators. Businesses that buy used parts and metals would be required to refuse the purchase of used motor vehicle parts or accessories and report the attempted sale to police if a seller does not provide appropriate information at the time of the attempted sale.
Sayama says this bill would help protect families dependent on their vehicles to go to work and take their children to school.
"Many families are already struggling with the pandemic and don't have an extra $1,000 to $2,000 to replace their stolen catalytic converter. Just as the legislature cracked down on the theft of copper in 2013, we must place safeguards to prevent the illegal trade and theft of catalytic converters now," said Representative Sayama (D-20, St. Louis Heights, Palolo, Maunalani Heights, Wilhelmina Rise, Kaimuki).
The bill passed first reading in the House and has been assigned to committees.