Recently we had a conference call with Toby Compton, Assistant Commissioner with Dept. of Commerce and Insurance.  The purpose of the call was to discuss the increasing thefts of catalytic converters across the state as well as discuss enforcement.  Here is the summary:

Catalytic Converters:  The state has seen a rise in converter thefts over the past several months especially prior to COVID-19.  We don’t feel any rule changes are necessary at this time but we need to report any “non-registered” scrap dealers to the department.  They are sending enforcement agents across the state to inspect any reported claims.  All claims should be made under TSRA.  You can use tnrecyclersassociation@gmail.com as the contact email.

In addition to investigation of claims, they are also sending our inspectors to all licensed dealers as soon as COVID-19 blows over.  We need to be their eyes and ears as to any suspicious activity.  They are doing all they can to enforce the laws we have all worked so hard to put in place.

Enforcement: Currently we should notify the department over their website at TN.gov under TSRA as the person making the claim.  They will notify local authorities as well as send out their own inspectors to the site of the claim.

I know this is not a top priority due to current COVID-19 restrictions, but we will see more theft in the future once prices rise from the ashes!

Thank you again for all you do for TSRA and I hope you all stay safe during this time!