Bill > HB201

This bill amends Kentucky law (KRS 514.070) to expand the definition of theft by failure to make required disposition of property, specifically adding a new provision related to rental property. Under the new law, a person can be charged with theft if they rent personal property valued at $100 or more under a written agreement, fail to return the property within five days after receiving a certified mail notice demanding its return, and intentionally possess or conceal the property. The bill clarifies that returning the property after the specified time period does not serve as a legal defense, and any monetary losses from the rental property's unavailability must be pursued through civil proceedings. The bill maintains existing penalty structures based on the value of the property, ranging from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class C felony, depending on the value and number of prior convictions. The legislation aims to provide clearer legal recourse for property owners when renters fail to return leased items within the agreed-upon timeframe, while also specifying that criminal prosecution does not preclude civil action for damages.