Bill to fight catalytic converter thefts headed to governor’s desk

The Minnesota House last night (Thurs) agreed to minor changes the Senate made in a bill that backers say will reduce the rash of catalytic converter thefts in Minnesota, sending the legislation to the desk of Governor Tim Walz.  It prohibits scrap metal dealers from buying any catalytic converter without a marking that ties it to the original vehicle — and Alexandria Republican Senator Torrey Westrom said about that:

“You’re going after the wrong person!   Go after the thieves!   Don’t make more criminals out of hard-working Minnesotans.”

Roseville Democrat John Marty responded, not every scrap dealer is a crook…

…”but I’m saying a lot of ’em are buying property that’s stolen.  This will enable them to know they’re not.”