California Passes SB 1144 to Combat Retail Theft

California lawmakers have passed SB 1144, a bipartisan bill aimed at combating organized retail theft by strengthening regulations on online marketplaces. The legislation, part of the Safer California Plan, received unanimous support in both the Assembly and Senate, signaling a strong legislative commitment to addressing the issue. It aims to prevent online platforms from being used for selling stolen goods and to enhance accountability among high-volume third-party sellers. Supported by a coalition of retailers and law enforcement, SB 1144 is designed to reduce the incentive for theft by restricting the market for stolen items. The bill is now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's signature and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. This legislative move comes amid ongoing debates about public safety and the effectiveness of current crime prevention measures in California.