Addressing Catalytic Converter Thefts: Senator Menendez's Forthcoming Federal Task Force
In response to the growing incidence of Catalytic Converter thefts across the country, Senator Bob Mendez has introduced a bill titled the Federal Catalytic Converter Theft Task Force Act. This prospective legislation seeks to significantly strengthen the fight against the increasing trend of catalytic converter thefts.
As per the Act's outlines, the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, will form a task force. This team's main goal will be to formulate and execute strategies to discourage, avert, and fight the theft and trafficking of catalytic converters and other car parts containing valuable metals that are prime targets for thieves.
Task Force Structure and Responsibilities
The task force will have 11 members, with three chosen by the Attorney General from the Department of Justice's Criminal Division, two by the Secretary of Transportation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and six by the Attorney General from state or local law enforcement bodies.
This task force will carry out a wide-ranging mandate, from evaluating current laws, rules, and law enforcement practices to recommending necessary legislative, regulatory, and enforcement reforms to Congress, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Transportation, and state and local law enforcement agencies. It will submit initial, interim, and final reports on the matter to Congress, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Transportation, and each state’s Attorney General
The League’s Position
The League advocates for initiatives aimed at curbing the increase in catalytic converter thefts, in line with the 2022 Conference Resolution 2022-13. New Jersey’s strategy to combat auto theft, from laws focused on dismantling criminal networks to the creation of specialized task forces and enhancing cooperation among agencies, are expected to alleviate pressures on local services, and result in a drop in car theft crimes.
We will continue to keep you updated on the progress of these state and national legislative efforts.
Contact: Andrew LaFevre, Legislative Analyst, alafevre@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x116.