New Hampshire Senate Bill SB188

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/20/23
• Report Pass: 2/8/23
• Report Pass: 2/22/23
• Engrossed: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/20/23
• Report Pass: 5/19/23
• Enrolled: 7/19/23
• Chaptered: 8/9/23
• Passed: 8/9/23

Caption

Relative to catalytic converters.

Impact

The implementation of SB188 is expected to affect both the judicial and correctional systems in New Hampshire. By establishing penalties for violations, the bill potentially increases the number of misdemeanor cases related to illegal sales or purchases of catalytic converters. The bill also imposes specific procedures on how dealers must conduct transactions and maintain records, which could impose new administrative burdens on businesses engaged in the scrap metal industry. The overall goals are to tackle the rise of catalytic converter theft and improve compliance and accountability within the market.

Summary

Senate Bill 188 (SB188) introduces a series of regulatory measures regarding the sale and purchase of catalytic converters and scrap metal in New Hampshire. The bill mandates that licensed dealers maintain detailed records of transactions involving catalytic converters, including the identity of sellers and transaction details. These records must be made available to law enforcement upon request, thereby enhancing the ability to investigate and prevent theft related to catalytic converters, which have become a significant target for thieves due to their valuable metal content.

Contention

While proponents argue that SB188 is a necessary step to combat the widespread theft of catalytic converters, some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the burden of record-keeping requirements placed on small businesses. Critics could argue that the bill introduces complications into the buying and selling of scrap metal, which may negatively impact legal transactions. There might also be debates about the effectiveness of the penalties imposed and whether they truly deter criminal activity, or simply add to the costs of doing business for legitimate metal recyclers.