Bill > HB523

This bill modifies Hawaii's theft in the second degree statute by adding a new provision that upgrades the classification of theft to a second-degree offense even when the stolen property or services are valued at $750 or less, if the offender has been convicted of two or more theft offenses within the previous five years. Specifically, the bill amends Section 708-831 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to create a new subsection that expands the circumstances under which theft can be considered a second-degree offense. Under the existing law, theft of property or services valued at $750 or less would typically be a less serious offense, but with this amendment, repeat offenders within a five-year period can be charged with a class C felony. The bill maintains the existing provisions about theft from specific contexts (such as theft from elderly persons, theft of agricultural products, or theft of personal storage items) while introducing this new provision to address repeat theft offenders. The bill will take effect upon approval and does not impact any rights, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before its effective date.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=523&year=2025