STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS31246 / H0598
In recent years, Idaho has seen an increase in the number of thieves who do not just steal from retail stores, they
do so in concert with others. These ‘organized retail thieves’ work quickly to steal as much as possible often
before leaving the state, to avoid detection and detainment.
This bill would create a new category of theft called “organized retail theft” and would provide law
enforcement and the retail community a requested tool to more accurately target and hold accountable these
individuals. Currently, the law enforcement and retail communities must rely on combinations of charges
including commercial burglary and grand theft.
FISCAL NOTE
This legislation causes no additional expenditure of funds at the state or local level of government, nor does it
cause an increase or decrease in revenue for state or local government; therefore, this legislation has no fiscal
impact. The law enforcement community already investigates and prosecutes these acts, and this bill would
merely make their jobs more efficient possibly saving local law enforcement agencies money.
Contact:
Representative Chris Mathias
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/20/2024, 7:40 AM