Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, D-119, Marcy, is sponsoring legislation to help reduce catalytic converter theft. The measure has passed a vote in the Assembly, according to her office.

“Nearly all of us have heard a story of a catalytic converter being stolen off of an unsuspecting neighbor’s car in recent years,” Buttenschon said in a statement. “We all know how difficult car problems of any kind can be, and this legislation seeks to protect car owners by preventing thieves from selling these stolen parts for profit. Mohawk Valley families deserve to feel safe and this bill represents an important step forward on this issue.”

A release from Buttenschon’s office notes the “bill would prohibit selling stolen car parts back to metal scrap yards, as well as make it easier to identify when a catalytic converter has been stolen. In the future, only scrap yards that have been licensed by the state Department of Motor Vehicles will be able to purchase catalytic converters, and no retail dealer will be authorized to purchase a vehicle unless the catalytic converter has been properly etched. The legislation also requires motor vehicle dealers offer etching kits and etching services.”