Proposed Catalytic Converter
Ordinance Presentation
April 2, 2024
City Council Meeting
Catalytic Converter Definition
Any exhaust means any exhaust emission
control device, or portion thereof, that
converter toxic gases and pollutants in
exhaust gas from an internal combustion
engine into less-toxic pollutants
2 Catalytic Converter
Statistics - Stolen
Tuesday, February 2, 20XX 33
2020 – 178
2021 – 482
2022 – 595
2023 – 302
*California accounts for 37% of stolen catalytic converters nationwide (US Attorney's Office)
California Law (2023)
Tuesday, February 2, 20XX 4
• SB 1087, requires core recyclers to provide
documentation signifying the catalytic converter being
purchased by the core recycler was obtained by the
seller in a legal manner. (21610 B&P)
• AB 1740, requires people or businesses who buy
catalytic converters to document the purchase by
recording the year, make, model, and VIN number of
the car that the converter came from. (21610 B&P)
• AB 641, made it an infraction to be in possession of at least nine catalytic converters that have been cut from a vehicle. (11500 VC)
43 Current Challenges
Tuesday, February 2, 20XX 5
• The ease and undetectable nature of committing the
thefts in a matter of seconds using common tools
such as a reciprocating saw
• The ability to recycle catalytic converters at scrap
metal yards for high dollar returns ranging from
$200 to $1,200 per catalytic converter, and
• Loopholes in legislation that only allow law
enforcement to arrest individuals in possession of a
catalytic converter if it can be proven to have been
stolen from a particular victim.
43 6
Proposed Ordinance
Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converter
• It shall be unlawful for any person, other than a core recycler as defined in California Business and Professions Code section 21610, to possess any catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle, unless the possessor has valid documentation or other proof to verify that they are in lawful possession of the catalytic converter.
Violations
• Misdemeanor and/or
• $1,000 fine
7 South San Francisco
San Jose
Vallejo
Los Angeles
Fullerton
Huntington Beach
Irvine
Similar Ordinances
8 Public Education Campaign
• Announcement of Ordinance and Crime Prevention Tips
• Social Media
• Nixle
• Community Organizations
• Home Owners Association
• Business Groups
9 Adopt an ordinance adding Chapter 4-43 “Prohibition Of Unlawful Possession Of Catalytic Converters” to Title 4 “Public Welfare” Of The San Leandro Municipal Code To Prohibit Unlawful Possession Of Catalytic Converters
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