The bill introduces significant amendments to the Revised Code aimed at addressing the growing issue of theft and illegal transactions involving used catalytic converters and scrap metal. It establishes new penalties for the theft and receipt of stolen catalytic converters, classifying such theft as a fifth-degree felony, escalating to a fourth-degree felony for repeat offenders. Businesses involved in these thefts face fines between $10,000 and $50,000 per violation, with collected fines directed to local law enforcement agencies. The bill also mandates that dealers maintain detailed records of transactions involving bulk merchandise containers, including seller identification and transaction details, and requires them to take photographs of sellers at the time of purchase.

Additionally, the bill enhances regulatory oversight by requiring scrap metal and bulk merchandise container dealers to register with the director of public safety, with specific eligibility criteria that disqualify individuals with certain criminal convictions from obtaining or renewing their licenses. It establishes a secure database for law enforcement to monitor dealer activities and mandates daily electronic transaction reports. The bill also clarifies exemptions for certain transactions, outlines penalties for non-compliance, and provides a process for individuals listed as known thieves to request removal from the list. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen accountability and combat theft in the scrap metal industry through stricter regulations and enhanced enforcement mechanisms.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2913.02, 2913.51, 4737.012, 4737.04, 4737.041, 4737.043, 4737.045, 4737.99, 4738.03, 4738.07, 4738.12, 4745.01, 4775.09
As Reported By House Committee: 2913.02, 2913.51, 4737.012, 4737.04, 4737.041, 4737.043, 4737.045, 4737.99, 4738.03, 4738.07, 4738.12, 4775.09
As Passed By House: 2913.02, 2913.51, 4737.012, 4737.04, 4737.041, 4737.043, 4737.045, 4737.99, 4738.03, 4738.07, 4738.12, 4775.09