Vehicles: catalytic converters.

Existing law requires a core recycler that accepts, ships, or sells used catalytic converters to maintain specified information regarding the purchase and sale of the catalytic converters. Existing law prohibits a core recycler from providing payment for a catalytic converter unless the payment is made by check, the check is mailed or provided no earlier than 3 days after the date of sale, unless the seller is a business, and the core recycler obtains a photograph or video of the seller, a written statement regarding the origin of the catalytic converter, and certain other identifying information, as specified. Existing law exempts from this requirement a core recycler that buys used catalytic converters, transmissions, or other parts removed from a vehicle if the core recycler and the seller have a written agreement for the transaction. Existing law requires a core recycler to provide this information for inspection by local law enforcement upon demand. A violation of these provisions is punishable as a misdemeanor. The bill would prohibit any person from purchasing a used catalytic converter from anybody other than certain specified sellers, including an automobile dismantler, an automotive repair dealer, or an individual possessing documentation, as specified, that they are the lawful owner of the catalytic converter. A violation of this provision would be an infraction, punishable by a fine, as specified. The bill would also prohibit a core recycler from purchasing a catalytic converter from anybody other than these specified sellers. By creating a new infraction and expanding the application of an existing misdemeanor, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 21610 of the Business and Professions Code proposed by SB 986 and AB 1740 to be operative only if this bill and either or both of those bills are enacted and this bill is enacted last. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.