The proposed bill, H.B. No. 2025-2026, seeks to amend sections 2913.02 and 2929.14 of the Revised Code to establish the Retail Theft Prevention Act, which specifically addresses organized retail theft. It introduces new definitions for "retail property" and "retail value," and prohibits individuals from knowingly participating in retail theft when the value of the stolen property is $1,000 or more. The bill categorizes theft offenses based on the number of participants involved, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances and the value of the stolen property. Notably, theft involving ten or more individuals and a retail value of $5,000 or more is classified as a felony of the second degree.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding sentencing for violent felonies, particularly those involving firearms and body armor, establishing mandatory additional prison terms for specific violent crimes. It ensures that certain prison terms cannot be reduced and outlines criteria for imposing longer sentences for repeat violent offenders. The legislation aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals convicted of serious violent crimes face significant and non-negotiable prison terms. The bill also consolidates and harmonizes previous amendments to ensure clarity and consistency in the law, repealing existing sections 2913.02 and 2929.14.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2913.02, 2929.14