Everything About Catalytic Converter Laws in Hawaii

The state that hosts the “calm port” may not be very calm after all. The increasing catalytic converter thefts might be waking up Hawaii with a loud roar. However, to cut down on the rising roar, the Hawaiian government has brought into effect catalytic converter laws in the state. Read to know more about the law. 

The House Bill was passed in March 2022. However, it will come into effect in the state of Hawaii in January 2023. How does it look at the thefts, and are the provisions enough to curb the catalytic converter thefts? Can your car insurance cover you against theft, which ranked Hawaii in the twenty-fourth position?

Catalytic Converter Laws in Hawaii

The recently passed bill proposes to increase the penalty for catalytic converter theft from a misdemeanor to a Class C felony. In addition, it aims to bring a system to regulate the purchase and sale of catalytic converters.

Meanwhile, the law requires the seller to record the vehicle registration numbers and photocopies of the driver’s licenses. If the required information is not provided, then they should refuse the purchase of used motor vehicle parts or accessories.

The law has also increased the penalty for violating these regulations, which are placed to control the ease of sale of stolen converters.

Also Read: Why do People Steal Catalytic Converters

Check List for Businesses engaged in Used Motor Vehicle Parts sales in Hawaii

The seller should issue a statement before the sale of a catalytic converter in the state. The statement must include the following:

• Seller’s name and address
• Description of the catalytic converter, including the serial number
• Date, time, and place of the sale
• Amount of the sale
• The license plate number of the car used to deliver the converter
• Copy of the receipt or a detailed notarization of the sale describing the details of the item being sold.
• Photo of the parts being sold.
• Photograph of the seller.

In addition, the licensee must also report the purchase to the county police department. This will help maintain a record in the police database as well.

What happens if you break the catalytic converter laws in Hawaii?

You will have to pay a fine of up to $500 if you fail to record the provisions mentioned in the checklist during the sale and purchase of a catalytic converter in Hawaii.

In addition to the Class C felony charge, one can be charged up to $5000 as a fine when involved in the illegal purchase or sale of a catalytic converter. Furthermore, it will certainly lead to the suspension of the license of the scrap dealer if the offense is repeated at least thrice.

Why are catalytic converters a target for theft?

Catalytic converters are pollution control devices present in every vehicle. While you can drive without a catalytic converter, it is illegal to drive without one. Hence, every car in Hawaii must possess a catalytic converter as a mandatory requirement.

However, its small size and the presence of valuable metals such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum make it a favorite accessory for thieves. For example, an ounce of Rhodium can fetch you as much as $12500.

Also Read: Which Cars Are Least Likely to Have Catalytic Converters Stolen?

How to insure your catalytic converter in Hawaii

Looking at the increasing theft rates of this equipment, it is wise to insure your catalytic converters. If you live in Hawaii, Way.com can easily guide you through an otherwise tedious process. Having minimum insurance might not be of help in this case. However, opting for comprehensive coverage will save you against out-of-pocket expenses that can be hefty in this case. You can save about $971 a year on car insurance with Way.com.

 

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