Requires proof of ownership prior to resale of catalytic converter and upgrades theft of catalytic converter to one degree higher than underlying offense.

This bill requires scrap metal businesses to verify the identity and vehicle ownership of sellers before purchasing used catalytic converters not attached to a vehicle. Specifically, businesses must check photo ID, record license numbers, and obtain vehicle identification numbers and title/registration copies for such sales. It upgrades theft of catalytic converters to a higher criminal offense level (from third to second degree under New Jersey law). The law directly affects scrap metal businesses, sellers of catalytic converters, and law enforcement investigating thefts.