Rep. Thomas Applauds Statewide Crackdown on Catalytic Converter Theft, Echoing Cincinnati's 13-Year-Old Effort

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) today praised the passage of House Bill (HB) 210, legislation aimed at curbing catalytic converter theft across Ohio, calling it a long-overdue statewide step that reflects the proactive stance Cincinnati took over a decade ago.

“13 years ago, Cincinnati led the charge to address metal theft, including catalytic converters, by implementing some of the strictest local regulations in the country,” said Rep. Thomas, a former Cincinnati City Councilman. “I’m proud to see that what we started locally is now being expanded across the state.”

HB 210 enhances protections against catalytic converter theft by:

•  Requiring scrap metal dealers to maintain detailed records and follow stricter reporting processes;
•  Imposing penalties of $10,000 to $50,000 on businesses that violate these provisions;
• Prohibiting motor vehicle salvage dealers from purchasing or accepting catalytic converters;
• Enhancing criminal penalties for theft and for receiving stolen catalytic converters;
• Making individuals criminally liable for complicity if they knowingly sell catalytic converters to violators.

Rep. Thomas noted that Cincinnati's 2012 ordinance included similar, forward-thinking provisions, such as:

•  Licensing: Scrap metal dealers and processors had to obtain a license from the city treasurer;
• Payment Restrictions: Payments were issued by check after a waiting period, giving law enforcement time to verify transactions;
• Recordkeeping: Dealers were required to document all transactions, including the identity and address of sellers;
• Background Checks: Frequent sellers were subject to criminal background checks and required to obtain permits;
•  Penalties: Violators faced fines and possible license revocation;
•  “No Buy” List: A list maintained by Cincinnati Police barred individuals with prior theft convictions from selling scrap.

“With catalytic converter thefts rising across Ohio—costing residents, businesses, and public institutions millions—this bill is a major step in the right direction,” said Thomas. “We knew back then that prevention—not just punishment—was the key. I’m glad Ohio is finally following suit,” said Rep. Thomas.

Rep. Thomas also stressed the importance of fair implementation:

“This legislation helps protect honest businesses and everyday Ohioans while cutting off the black market that fuels these crimes. We must continue balancing tough enforcement with support for legitimate recyclers and small operators who are doing things the right way, said Rep. Thomas.