[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[October 25, 1992]
[Page 1978]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on Signing the Anti Car Theft Act of 1992
October 25, 1992

    Today I am pleased to sign into law H.R. 4542, the ``Anti Car Theft 
Act of 1992.'' This legislation is absolutely critical if we are to 
strike back against auto thieves and carjackers. These criminals, who 
show no respect for the lives or property of law-abiding Americans, must 
be punished in the strongest possible manner.
    This bill makes armed carjacking a Federal offense. The recent wave 
of these carjackings has made the need for action clear.
    The bill also seeks to sap the profit motive for auto theft. Last 
year in the United States, auto thieves stole cars valued at $8 billion. 
H.R. 4542 creates a second Federal crime: operating or maintaining a 
``chop shop'' to alter stolen cars for resale or reduce them to parts 
that can be resold.
    It is my sincere hope that this legislation will reduce the level of 
auto thefts and carjackings. Thugs and criminals will now have to think 
twice about stealing a car. If not, they will pay a high price for their 
actions.

                                                             George Bush

The White House,
October 25, 1992.

                    Note: H.R. 4542, approved October 25, was assigned 
                        Public Law No. 102-519.