The PART Act (Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act) is designed to crack down on catalytic converter theft, which has become a major problem across the country. Catalytic converters contain valuable precious metals and are frequently stolen from vehicles because they're relatively easy to remove and can be sold for quick cash.

The bill tackles this problem in several ways. First, it requires car manufacturers to mark catalytic converters with identification numbers—either the vehicle's full identification number or a unique part number that law enforcement can trace. This marking makes stolen converters easier to identify and harder to sell. Second, the bill creates a grant program giving $7 million to police departments, car dealers, repair shops, and nonprofits to stamp identification numbers on existing vehicles, especially in areas with high theft rates. This service would be free to vehicle owners.

The bill also creates new rules for buying and selling catalytic converters. Anyone selling these parts must provide their identification and contact information to the buyer, along with the vehicle identification number or part number. All sales must use traceable payment methods like checks or wire transfers—cash and digital payments are prohibited. It's also made illegal to sell or buy catalytic converters with removed or tampered identification marks. Finally, the bill creates serious federal crimes for stealing catalytic converters or knowingly buying stolen ones, with penalties up to 5 years in prison and fines.