PART Act

Grants for Stamping: Section 4 sets up a grant program to provide equipment and materials for stamping vehicle identification numbers or unique part numbers onto catalytic converters. This helps law enforcement, dealers, repair shops, and nonprofits provide stamping services to the public to prevent theft.

Better Tracking for Law Enforcement: Section 3 requires new catalytic converters to be marked with numbers that connect to a database accessible by law enforcement. This makes it easier for officers to trace stolen parts back to the original vehicle.

Cracking Down on Shady Sales: Section 5 makes it illegal to buy or sell catalytic converters using cash or cryptocurrency, requiring traceable payments like checks or wire transfers instead. It also bans selling parts with removed or tampered markings, which makes it harder for thieves to easily cash in on stolen parts.

Stiff Penalties for Thieves: Section 6 creates federal criminal penalties of up to 5 years in prison, fines, or both, for anyone who steals a catalytic converter or knowingly traffics in stolen ones. This holds criminals accountable and aims to deter future thefts affecting everyday vehicle owners.

Record-Keeping Burdens on Businesses: Section 5 requires businesses that salvage, dismantle, recycle, or repair motor vehicle parts to collect and keep detailed records of sellers, including photocopies of government-issued IDs, contact information, and vehicle details, for at least two years. This creates extra paperwork and administrative burdens for these businesses.

Bans on Certain Payment Methods: Section 5 makes it unlawful to buy or sell any catalytic converter using cash or cryptocurrency. Legitimate sellers or buyers who prefer or rely on cash transactions may face restrictions or inconveniences when doing business.