SC senators are cracking down on catalytic converter thefts.

Law enforcement has reported a dramatic increase in thefts of the valuable vehicle parts.

The Senate has passed a bill that would make it a crime to buy, sell or possess a detached catalytic converter unless you have a permit, Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said.

The Senate also passed bills to:

• Require schools and universities to print the National Suicide Prevention Hotline phone number on all student identification cards.

• Allow women to buy birth control without a doctor’s prescription.

Both bills now go to the House of Representatives.

Last week was the 15th of the 2021 legislative session.

3 legislative weeks are left before lawmakers are scheduled to adjourn May 13.