As 2025 approaches, California takes a bold step toward curbing organized retail theft with new legislation signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. These laws, the most comprehensive of their kind, aim to protect businesses, strengthen public safety, and create tougher consequences for theft and vandalism across the state.
One key reform is Assembly Bill 2943, introduced by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles). It allows the aggregation of stolen property values to meet felony thresholds and extends probation for shoplifting offenses. Similarly, Senate Bill 905, authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), targets automotive property theft and removes legal loopholes for repeat offenders.
California’s legislation also cracks down on online marketplaces for stolen goods and enforces harsher penalties for smash-and-grab robberies. These measures enhance statewide crime task forces and prioritize safer neighborhoods for all.