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An anti-theft ID on an older catalytic converter. (mastergard.com)

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A bill aimed at mitigating thefts of automotive catalytic converters by making the components more traceable was recently introduced in the House of Representatives.

The Preventing Auto Recycling Theft, or PART, Act, led by two sponsors, Reps. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.) and Rep. Jim Baird (R-Ind.), would require labels on converters with traceable identification numbers. It also would categorize such thefts as a criminal offense.

“Catalytic converter theft continues to be a common and costly problem across the nation, and specifically in the Twin Cities,” McCollum said Sept. 9 as part of a statement accompanying the bill’s introduction. She is a member of the Appropriations Committee. “I am pleased to join my Republican colleague [Rep.] Baird in reintroducing the PART Act. By working with auto manufacturers in writing the regulations to properly track catalytic converters, the PART Act gives law enforcement the tools they need to prevent this crime.”

RELATED: Minnesota Moves to Crack Down on Catalytic Converter Thefts

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McCollum and Baird��

“These thefts can have devastating financial consequences on Americans and business owners, and it has become a significant problem in Central Indiana,” said Baird, a senior member of the Agriculture Committee. “I first introduced the PART Act after hearing from numerous constituents and local law enforcement officers about the growing prevalence of catalytic converter thefts.”

Specifically, the legislation would require new vehicles to have an identification number stamped onto converters. The bill also would facilitate enforceability of laws around the theft of a catalytic converter.

Co-sponsoring the bill are Republican Reps. Brian Babin of Texas, Tracey Mann of Kansas and Buddy Carter of Georgia, and Democratic Reps. Jim Costa of California, Angie Craig of Minnesota, Debbie Dingell of Michigan and Seth Magaziner of Rhode Island.

“The theft of catalytic converters,” the sponsors explained, “has become increasingly prevalent over the past few years, plaguing vehicle owners, scrap yards and law enforcement officials in communities across the United States.”

According to background information from the bill’s sponsors, “The cost of a catalytic converter theft may even be enough for a total loss of a vehicle.”

Policymakers and stakeholders explained the measure responds to nationwide thefts of the devices. A version of the bill was introduced in the Senate this summer by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio). Previous versions of the bill introduced in earlier sessions of Congress did not advance to the president’s desk for enactment.

The Minnesota Auto Dealers Association endorsed the bill. “Catalytic converter theft is a menace to consumers here in Minnesota and across the nation, and it needs to be addressed with a federal standard that holds thieves accountable,” said Scott Lambert, the group’s president. “The Minnesota Auto Dealers applaud [Rep.] McCollum’s and [Rep.] Baird’s leadership on this important issue.”

The also announced its support for the bipartisan legislation. “Catalytic converter theft is a significant national issue for law enforcement, businesses and vehicle owners. Federal action is needed to combat this dangerous criminal activity,” NADA President and CEO Mike Stanton said. “These thefts not only impact hardworking Americans but also put lives at risk.”