Law to curb catalytic converter thefts takes effect Monday in Maine

AUGUSTA, Maine (WABI) – A brand new regulation governing the removing of catalytic converters from motor automobiles is about to take impact Monday, August eighth.

LD 796 goals to curb the theft and subsequent sale of stolen catalytic converters to steel recyclers.

Catalytic converters are exhaust emission management gadgets required by federal regulation for automobiles with inner combustion engines, and are sometimes in an exterior location beneath the car. To chop down on emissions, the converters use precious treasured metals that make them a chief goal for thieves.

Final August, police dismantled a theft ring the place 10 people had stolen 1,000 converters with a alternative value of about $2 million in Penobscot and Aroostook counties.

The brand new regulation places penalties in place for people who steal catalytic converters, requires new and used automotive sellers to engrave the total car identification quantity (VIN) onto converters when faraway from a car, and creates a authorized framework for promoting, buying, eradicating and disposing of converters.

These in possession of unmarked catalytic converters from different automobiles, recyclers with unmarked elements, or individuals who deface markings could also be charged with a Class D crime – punishable by as much as 364 days incarceration and a high quality.

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