Bill > SB5644

This bill addresses criminal conduct involving gift cards by creating new definitions, offenses, and penalties related to gift card theft, fraud, and misuse. The bill defines key terms like "gift card," "cardholder," "card issuer," and distinguishes between closed-loop and open-loop gift cards. It establishes three levels of criminal offenses for theft of a gift card, based on the card's value: a first-degree felony for values over $5,000, a second-degree felony for values between $750 and $5,000, and a gross misdemeanor for values under $750. Similarly, the bill creates comparable offense levels for unlawful use of a gift card obtained through theft. Additionally, the bill adds a new crime of gift card fraud, which occurs when someone devises a scheme to obtain a gift card or gift card redemption information through false pretenses, representations, or promises. The legislation aims to provide law enforcement and prosecutors with more specific tools to address emerging forms of financial fraud involving gift cards, which have become increasingly popular as a payment method and potential target for criminal activity.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5644&Year=2025&Initiative=false