Bill > AB468

This bill expands and clarifies California's legal definition and penalties for looting, particularly in areas affected by disasters or under evacuation orders. It broadens the definition of an "evacuation zone" to include not just areas under immediate evacuation orders, but also residential dwelling units in disaster-affected areas for up to one year after an evacuation order (and up to three years if reconstruction is ongoing). The bill increases criminal penalties for offenses like burglary, grand theft, trespass, and vehicle theft committed in these evacuation zones during a state of emergency, local emergency, or under an evacuation order. Specifically, the bill introduces more severe punishments for these crimes when committed in evacuation zones, such as longer potential imprisonment terms and mandatory minimum jail sentences for those granted probation. The legislation aims to protect vulnerable properties during and after disasters by creating stronger legal deterrents against opportunistic criminal activities. The bill's implementation is contingent upon the passage of another related bill (Senate Bill 571) in the 2025-26 legislative session, and it does not require state reimbursement to local agencies since it primarily modifies criminal penalties.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB468