Councilmember Cindy Bass’s bill to curtail thefts of catalytic converters got one step closer to passing on Friday after clearing City Council’s rules committee. 

The bill will mandate that anyone selling catalytic converters to buyers such as scrap yards would have to present proof of legitimate ownership. It also prohibits the sale of partial catalytic converters. 

“My objective as my team and I researched and wrote this legislation was to de-incentivize the sale and purchase of not just stolen catalytic converters, but other stolen precious metal auto parts,” Councilmember Bass said. “Too many thieves, scrap yards, and other associates were making money off people’s stolen converters. Meanwhile, the victimized vehicle owners were left with empty pockets after having to spend three thousand dollars or more to replace their converters.” 

The bill also includes a $2,000 fine per violation, up to 90 days’ imprisonment, or both for stealing, buying or selling stolen converters or other precious metal auto parts.

“The City of Philadelphia has not been spared the scourge of catalytic converter theft that has plagued the entire country,” said Bass. “I wanted to ensure that not one more Philadelphian would ever have to get in their vehicle again and hear that telltale, throttling roar indicating that someone has taken the time and energy overnight to sneakily scoot underneath it to saw off their catalytic converter.”   

The full City Council will vote on whether to pass the Councilmember’s bill at the next Council Session on Dec. 15. Once passed, the ordinance will go into effect immediately.