OAKBROOK TERRACE – A new Illinois law adds stricter guidelines for catalytic converter sales to reduce help thefts. The law was signed Friday with support from State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton.

“Working families are suffering from catalytic converter thefts, and the reported crimes are rapidly increasing,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This new law is intended to impose stricter guidelines to prevent bad actors from getting away with crime.”

The law, filed under House Bill 107, adds catalytic converters to the definition of recyclable metal which requires businesses to keep record of sales.

Under the new law, individuals seeking to sell a catalytic converter must provide the license plate number of the vehicle, a picture of themselves, a verified name and address, and a signed declaration stating the catalytic converter was not stolen.

In addition, the measure prohibits a recyclable metal dealer from purchasing a catalytic converter with a value $100 or more with cash.

The law is effective immediately.