The bill amends the Revised Code to strengthen regulations surrounding the sale and theft of used catalytic converters and scrap metal. It classifies the theft of a catalytic converter as a fifth-degree felony, escalating to a fourth-degree felony for repeat offenders, and categorizes offenses committed by business entities as enterprise theft, with fines ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. The legislation also mandates that fines collected be directed to local law enforcement agencies involved in the prosecution of these crimes. Additionally, the bill introduces stricter record-keeping requirements for scrap metal and bulk merchandise container dealers, including the necessity to maintain detailed transaction records and take photographs of sellers and items at the time of purchase.

Moreover, the bill establishes a registration requirement for individuals intending to operate as scrap metal dealers or bulk merchandise container dealers, with a registration fee of $150 and annual renewal. It outlines the authority of the director of public safety to investigate compliance, issue subpoenas, and impose civil penalties for violations. The bill also introduces new disqualifying offenses for motor vehicle salvage dealer licenses, targeting individuals with convictions related to theft and fraud, and mandates the revocation of licenses for such offenses. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance accountability and oversight in the scrap metal and salvage industries, thereby reducing theft and illegal transactions.

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