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Bill

HB 5059

Relating to criminal conduct involving a catalytic converter removed from a motor vehicle; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Jeff Leach

Texas bill criminalizes possession, sale, and transfer of stolen catalytic converters to combat widespread theft affecting vehicle owners and fleet operators.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #secondhandmetal(s0255) #vehicles&traffic--equipment(i0855)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5059

Legislative bill overview

HB 5059 creates a new criminal offense in Texas law specifically targeting the theft and illegal possession of catalytic converters removed from motor vehicles. The bill establishes penalties for individuals who knowingly possess, sell, or transfer stolen catalytic converters, and likely includes provisions for possessing materials or tools used in their removal.

Why is this important

Catalytic converter theft has become a widespread problem across the United States, including Texas, causing thousands of dollars in damage per vehicle and disproportionately affecting working-class vehicle owners and commercial fleets. By creating a dedicated criminal statute rather than relying on general theft laws, the bill aims to streamline prosecution, enable law enforcement to more easily identify and track catalytic converter trafficking networks, and deter potential thieves through targeted penalties.

Potential points of contention

  • Possession vs. intent distinctions: Determining what constitutes illegal possession versus legitimate catalytic converter recycling or repair work may create challenges in distinguishing between criminals and lawful auto industry professionals
  • Enforcement and racial disparities: Like many property crime laws, implementation could raise concerns about disparate enforcement or profiling of certain communities
  • Specific penalty levels: The bill's severity of penalties (which haven't been detailed here) will influence debate—harsher penalties may deter theft but raise proportionality concerns; lighter penalties may seem insufficient to address the crime wave

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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