This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes regarding the theft of movable property belonging to businesses. Under the new law, municipalities and counties would be prohibited from adopting or enforcing any ordinances that impose penalties on businesses for the theft of their movable property. This includes restrictions on imposing fines for abandoned property, requiring businesses to pay for retrieval or disposal of their property, and mandating compliance with municipal retrieval programs under threat of penalties. The bill also clarifies that the regulation of theft of movable property is a statewide concern, thus preventing local governments from further regulating this issue.

Additionally, the bill allows businesses and the Attorney General to take legal action against municipalities or counties that violate these provisions, with successful plaintiffs entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and costs. Definitions for "business," "movable property," and "theft" are provided to ensure clarity in enforcement. The legislation aims to alleviate the financial burdens on businesses caused by local ordinances that penalize them for thefts committed by third parties, thereby promoting a more favorable business environment in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-500.54, 11-269.31