Tennessee Implements Catalytic Converter Law

July 20, 2021
The law will make it harder to sell catalytic converters with anonymity.

July 20, 2021—Tennessee has implemented a law aimed at reducing the theft and resale of catalytic converters, WRCB-TV reported. 

The law, which went into effect in July, includes several provisions. 

  1. Anyone engaged in buying and/or selling scrap metal as a single item must give written notice to the chief of police and sheriff in the city and county in which the activity is carried out
  2. Any person purchasing a used, detached catalytic converter (for the purpose of recycling/scrap) must be registered as a scrap metal dealer registered with the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance
  3. Purchase of detached catalytic converter generally must be made at the dealer’s site and in-person
  4. Buyers must obtain copies of the sellers’ identification

According to the Chattanooga Police Department, theft of reported catalytic converter thefts has increased more than 5000% in the past two years.

About the Author

Ratchet+Wrench Staff Reporters

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

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