Substitute Senate Bill No. 1321 seeks to strengthen laws surrounding organized retail theft, gift card crimes, and related fraudulent activities. The bill introduces new definitions and penalties for organized retail theft, which is now defined as larceny involving retail property valued over $2,000 committed in collaboration with others. Offenders can face a class D felony charge, escalating to a class C felony if they gain financial benefits of $10,000 or more. The bill also expands the definition of accessory to organized retail theft to include individuals who handle stolen property through online platforms. Key changes include the repeal of Section 53-142k and the replacement of Section 53a-119, which updates the legal framework for various forms of larceny, and modifies the time frame for theft from 180 days to 365 days.

Additionally, the bill introduces new crimes such as "fostering the sale of stolen property" and "gift card crimes," while increasing the maximum civil liability for punitive damages related to shoplifting from $300 to $1,000. It clarifies that a conviction for larceny by shoplifting is not necessary for civil action and establishes a two-year statute of limitations for such actions. The bill also creates a rebuttable presumption of intent to avoid payment for utility services under specific tampering conditions. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance legal protections for property owners and service providers, with an effective date set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 53-142k, 52-564a
PS Joint Favorable Substitute: 53-142k, 52-564a
File No. 430: 53-142k, 52-564a