The proposed legislation aims to establish two new criminal offenses: mail theft and the theft or unauthorized reproduction of a mail receptacle key or lock. Under the new section 5-36-127, mail theft is defined as knowingly taking or exercising unauthorized control over mail belonging to another person, obtaining mail through deception or threats, or dealing with unlawfully obtained mail. The penalties for mail theft are classified as a Class D felony for a first offense and a Class A felony for subsequent offenses, with the added requirement for restitution to victims. Prosecution can occur in the county where the offense took place or where the victim resides or conducts business.

Additionally, section 5-36-128 addresses the theft or unauthorized reproduction of mail receptacle keys or locks, defining the offense similarly and imposing the same penalties. This includes theft of keys or locks used by postal services and the unauthorized creation or possession of such keys or locks with the intent to unlawfully use or sell them. Like mail theft, this offense is also classified as a Class D felony for a first offense and a Class A felony for subsequent offenses, with restitution mandated for victims. Prosecution for this offense follows the same jurisdictional guidelines as mail theft.