Combatting Catalytic Converter Theft: Illinois Implements New Law Starting in 2025

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — A new law in Illinois will require recyclable metal dealers to record the vehicle identification numbers (VIN) of a car which has had its catalytic converter removed.

House Bill 4589 would also require that any numbers, bar codes, stickers or other unique markers of the catalytic convertor to be recorded.

In transactions involving a catalytic converter, the recyclable dealers must also require a copy of the certificate of title or uniform invoice. This is to ensure that the seller actually owns the vehicle.

WCIA’s partner station WTVO reported that, according to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), Illinois was one of the top five states in the country for catalytic converter thefts between 2020-2022.

HB 4589 passed both Houses in May of 2024. Governor JB Pritzker approved the bill in July of 2024. The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.

For a full list of laws beginning in 2025, click here.