California Legislature Approves Comprehensive Retail Theft Legislation

New laws aim to curb organized retail crime by targeting online marketplaces and enhancing penalties for repeat offenders.

The legislative package includes 10 bills addressing various aspects of retail theft and property-related crimes.
Key measures involve new felony charges for possessing stolen goods worth over $950 and longer sentences for organized theft.
Online marketplaces must now maintain records proving the legality of products sold.
The California Highway Patrol's property crimes task force is made permanent and expanded to include cargo theft.
Proposition 36, a ballot measure proposing more severe penalties for repeat theft, remains a contentious issue for the upcoming election.