New York Lawmakers Push for Crackdown on Copper and Catalytic Converter Theft

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): State officials in New York are pushing for new legislation to address the rising theft of copper and catalytic converters. Senator Sean Ryan and Assemblymember Monica Wallace, joined by law enforcement, unveiled the proposal during a press event at Niagara Metals in Buffalo on Friday.

With catalytic converter thefts at an all-time high, the bill seeks to mandate serial numbers on converters and enforce stricter regulations for scrap metal recycling facilities. The goal is to deter theft and make it easier for law enforcement to track stolen parts.

“Theft of copper and catalytic converters costs victims thousands,” said Sen. Ryan, emphasizing the need for tougher measures. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that copper theft alone results in $1 billion in annual losses.

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