California Democratic legislators explore solutions to address rise in retail theft without compromising progressive policies

Lawmakers in California are in a state of disagreement over how to tackle the rising issue of retail theft in the state. While some believe that Proposition 47, a progressive policy passed in 2014 to reduce certain theft offenses to misdemeanors, should be reformed, others, including Democratic leaders, are against any changes to the measure. The problem of shoplifting has been exacerbated by large-scale thefts where groups of individuals openly steal items from stores. Law enforcement officials, along with Republican and moderate Democratic lawmakers, are advocating for a reevaluation of Proposition 47 to address the issue.

A recent study by The Public Policy Institute of California revealed a steady increase in shoplifting in urban areas like the Bay Area and Los Angeles between 2021 and 2022. While shoplifting rates across the state have risen during this time, they still remain lower than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The issue of commercial burglaries and robberies has become more prevalent in urban counties, highlighting the urgency of addressing retail theft in California.

Governor Gavin Newsom, a supporter of Proposition 47, has rejected calls to reform the measure and instead called for bolstering existing laws to combat crimes like motor vehicle theft and the resale of stolen goods. The state is investing $267 million to assist local law enforcement agencies in increasing patrols and acquiring surveillance equipment to crack down on retail theft. Despite some success in programs funded by savings from reduced incarceration, law enforcement officials argue that Proposition 47 has made it harder to prosecute shoplifters and enabled crime rings.

Although Democratic leaders in California have resisted calls to repeal Proposition 47, there are bipartisan efforts to address the issue. Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire introduced a package of legislation targeting auto thefts, resell schemes, and expanding diversion programs. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas has also co-authored legislation aimed at repeat thieves and online resellers. These efforts focus on imposing harsher penalties, requiring online sellers to crack down on stolen goods, and mandating reporting on stolen goods data.

Some Democratic lawmakers believe that the existing efforts are insufficient and are exploring further options to address retail theft. Assemblymember James Ramos has introduced legislation to increase penalties for repeat shoplifters, requiring voter approval. Assemblymember Kevin McCarty, chair of the Assembly Public Safety Committee, is considering all options, including putting forth a ballot initiative. Major retail groups, the California District Attorney Association, and Democratic mayors of San Francisco and San Jose are supporting a ballot initiative to stiffen penalties for repeat thieves. They are currently collecting signatures to qualify for the November ballot.