The bill amends and reenacts several provisions of Louisiana's law regarding access device fraud, specifically R.S. 14:70.4(D) through (G), and introduces a new section, R.S. 14:70.4(H). Key changes include the addition of gift cards to the definition of "access device," which now encompasses a broader range of items that can be used to obtain value. The bill specifies that possessing fifteen or more counterfeit or misappropriated access devices constitutes a crime, and it provides a detailed definition of what constitutes a gift card, including its prepaid nature and redeemable value.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for various levels of access device fraud based on the value of the misappropriated items, with imprisonment and fines varying according to the amount involved. It also mandates that courts order restitution as part of the sentencing process, ensuring that victims are compensated for their losses. The language regarding restitution has been updated to align with the Code of Criminal Procedure Article 883.2, streamlining the process for victims to recover costs incurred due to the fraud.

Statutes affected:
SB38 Enrolled: 14:4(D)
SB38 Act : 14:4(D)