Release: Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses Package of Retail Theft Legislation
The California Problem Solvers Caucus has endorsed sensible, obtainable solutions to the rise in retail theft seen over recent years. After a series of stakeholder meetings and internal discussion, Caucus members have put forward a series of thoughtful proposals to update and reform our current retail theft statutes, including:
AB 1787 (Villapudua)*: Will allow for the prosecution of repeat theft-related offenses – regardless of accumulated property value – and will mandate the use of Drug Courts when appropriate, among other things (*amendments pending).
AB 1779 (Irwin): Provides the authority to charge Organized Retail Theft and other related incidents in one county superior court, even if some of the offenses occurred in multiple county jurisdictions.
AB 1972 (Alanis): Expands the definition of Organized Retail Theft to include “cargo theft” to protect rail lines, shipping lanes, and delivery trucks.
AB 2406 (Davies): Establishes a new felony offense for individuals who coerce minors into committing theft-related crimes.
SB 928 (Niello): Eliminates the 2026 sunset established for the crime of Organized Retail Theft.
“Businesses and the safety of customers are at risk due to the rise in organized and petty theft over recent years,” said Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton). “Much like many of the criminal justice challenges we face, we need a multifaceted approach to rein in the onslaught of retail theft across California. I am encouraged by the focus this issue is receiving from Speaker Robert Rivas and Assemblymember Rick Zbur, Chair of the Select Committee on Retail Theft, and look forward to the collaboration between them and the Problem Solvers Caucus to provide commonsense solutions for California.”
The Problem Solvers Caucus work is intended to inform and advance larger Capitol efforts to understand and address retail theft reform, including ongoing efforts by the Governor, the Senate and Assembly Public Safety Committees, the Assembly Select Committee on Retail Theft, the Little Hoover Commission, and the State Auditor’s Office.
“After months of discussions and working together, the bipartisan California Problem Solvers Caucus has come up with solutions to the ever growing threat of mayhem in our communities caused by organized retail theft rings,” said Assemblywoman Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel). “My bill, AB 2406, is a unique solution to target ring-leaders of these syndicates who coerce minors to participate. We need to send a message that the status quo is no longer acceptable. I look forward to working with the caucus and other legislative leaders to come up with common-sense solutions to protect Californians.”
Expanding the use of diversion and rehabilitation programs such as Drug Court will continue to provide a tailored and appropriate response to reduce recidivism for offenders with substance dependency. A measured balance between these tools and strong enforcement measures against all theft-related offenses will provide the needed life raft for our struggling businesses.
“I appreciate the Problem Solvers Caucus endorsement of my bill, SB 928, which is one tool we can use to battle against retail theft and make our communities safer,” said Senator Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks). “Bipartisan and bicameral groups are working together on common sense solutions. Together, we can make a difference on this issue and many other problems facing Californians.”
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The California Problems Solvers Caucus represents 20 state legislators from both houses and parties who are principled, pragmatic, and committed to reaching across the aisle to address important issues facing Californians. The Caucus looks forward to working with all invested stakeholders to support thoughtful strategies for statewide progress. For more information about the Caucus, please visit the California Problem Solvers Foundation website or contact its Executive Director, April Manatt, at april@caproblemsolversfoundation.com.