[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed legislation into law that will crack down on catalytic converter theft. He also signed into law protections for Native American children and families, and funding for the Competency Attainment board and competency attainment services.

“Too many Minnesotans have stories about the danger and financial consequences of having their catalytic converter stolen. This legislation will help protect Minnesotans’ property and bring peace of mind. Those who commit these brazen crimes should know that there will be accountability,” said Governor Walz.

“Minnesota’s Native American children and families need to have the highest level of protection to prevent unnecessary removals and separation,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Today is a joyful day knowing that, through the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act, our children’s rights to access their own culture, language, and family will have another layer of protection beyond the Federal Indian Child Welfare Act here in Minnesota.”

Chapter 15, House File 30 cracks down on catalytic converter theft by only allowing registered scrap metal dealers to purchase catalytic converters and increasing criminal penalties for the illegal possession or sale of catalytic converters. The bill also requires catalytic converters to carry the vehicle identification number of the car it originated from, allowing law enforcement to determine if the car part was purchased lawfully.

Chapter 16, Senate File 667 strengthens child welfare protections for Native American families and children. The bill affirms the authority of all federally recognized Indian tribes to handle cases of Indian child custody and child placement proceedings and requires social workers to make active efforts to preserve family unity.

Chapter 14, House File 121 , passed unanimously by the Minnesota Legislature, provides $250,000 to fund the Competency Attainment Board and competency attainment services to better address situations in the criminal justice system where an individual charged with a crime is found not competent.

Ceremonial bill signings will take place at a later date.