Bill > SB860

This bill seeks to address the growing problem of shoplifting in Hawaii by increasing penalties for theft by means of shoplifting. The bill cites a Forbes Advisor report from 2024 highlighting Hawaii's high rates of organized retail theft, with an average stolen value of $288 per resident compared to the national average of $173. The proposed changes to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 708-833.5 modify fine structures for shoplifting offenses: for a class C felony, the minimum fine will be calculated as a multiple of the property's value (though the specific multiplier is not clearly specified in the text); for misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors, minimum fines will also be calculated based on the value of stolen items. Additionally, for repeat offenders, the minimum fines will be doubled. The bill introduces a new provision requiring courts that sentence individuals to community service for fine defaults to assign a minimum number of community service hours, though the specific number is not specified in the text. The bill aims to deter shoplifting by imposing more stringent financial penalties and community service requirements, reflecting the legislature's concern about the economic impact of retail theft in the state.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=860&year=2025