The 10 Bills Passed by California Legislature to Combat Retail Theft

On Monday, California lawmakers approved a comprehensive set of 10 bills aimed at tackling retail theft, a move that highlighted divisions among Democrats as they approached key electoral issues for November. Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles), who heads a special committee on retail theft, emphasized the complex nature of the legislation and acknowledged the diverse perspectives within the body and the community.

Key Legislative Measures

Several new laws were passed to address retail crime and enhance law enforcement capabilities:

AB 2943: This bill introduces felony charges for a third theft offense, aggregates the total value of stolen items, and expands drug diversion programs.

AB 3209: It allows courts to issue restraining orders of up to two years against individuals involved in theft, vandalism, or battery against employees. The bill also requires consideration of whether the offender resides in a “food desert” and if the store is a sole source of essentials.

AB 1779: This measure permits prosecutors to consolidate offenses occurring across multiple counties into a single court case.

AB 1802: It makes the California Highway Patrol's property crimes task force a permanent entity.

AB 1972: Expands the property crimes task force to cover cargo theft and railroad police.

SB 905: Introduces two new offenses, “wobblers,” that can be charged as either felonies or misdemeanors: breaking into a car with intent to steal and possessing stolen property from a car worth at least $950 with intent to sell.

SB 1242: This bill imposes harsher sentences for arson committed on retailer properties as part of organized theft schemes.

SB 1416: Enhances penalties for individuals who sell, exchange, or return stolen items for value.

SB 1144: Requires online marketplaces to gather information from high-volume third-party sellers and allows district attorneys to pursue civil actions for enforcement.

SB 982: Removes the expiration date on charges for organized retail theft, allowing for indefinite prosecution.