AR HB1365

Creates new offense of theft of a catalytic converter as a Class C felony, with court authority to order restitution for repair or replacement costs.

Establishes offense of unauthorized possession of a catalytic converter as a Class C felony if the person has prior conviction or commits related offenses, or Class D felony otherwise.

Requires catalytic converters to be permanently marked with the removal date and vehicle identification number to distinguish legitimate business possession from theft.

Provides presumption that certain businesses (automotive wreckers, scrap metal recyclers, vehicle dealers, repair shops, towing companies, etc.) possess catalytic converters in ordinary course of business, unless they knew the converter was unlawfully obtained.

Amends scrap metal recycler regulations to clarify that detached catalytic converters are scrap metal and buyers other than scrap metal recyclers must file electronic records and register with the county sheriff.