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California Governor signs bill to combat retail crime

The new legislation is intended to lead to stronger action against property and retail crime. Image credit: Pla2na/Shutterstock.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a comprehensive package of laws aimed at toughening the fight against retail crime and property theft in the US state.

The move follows the bipartisan approval of a corresponding law by the California Legislature on August 13, 2024.

The new law, called SB 1144, provides tougher penalties for repeat offenders and improves law enforcement tools.

Governor Newsom said, “Let’s be clear: This is the most significant anti-property crime bill in California’s modern history. I thank the bipartisan group of legislators, our retail partners and stakeholders for putting public safety above politics.

“While some seek to return us to the ineffective and costly measures of the past, these new laws represent a better way forward: they make our communities safer and give law enforcement meaningful tools to arrest and hold criminals accountable.”

The laws are intended to provide additional resources to combat burglaries, property crimes, shoplifting and car break-ins.

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This allows the police to arrest suspects in shoplifting cases with sufficient suspicion without witnessing a crime in progress.

Although crime rates in California are near historic lows, these laws respond to criminals' evolving tactics and ensure they are effectively held accountable.

SB 1144 received unanimous support in the state Senate and Assembly by votes of 37 to 0 and 73 to 0, respectively.

This bill is an extension of Senator Nancy Skinner's previous bill, SB 301, which addressed the online sale of stolen goods.

With the governor's approval, the new laws are expected to take effect on July 1, 2025.


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