Bill > SB571

This bill makes several changes to California law related to criminal offenses during emergencies and disasters. First, it modifies the definition of looting to include offenses committed within 180 days after the termination of a state of emergency or local emergency, and removes judicial discretion to reduce mandatory jail time for probationary sentences. The bill also expands penalties for burglary by specifying that damage to a structure from a natural disaster does not prevent a burglary conviction. Additionally, the legislation creates a new crime of impersonating a first responder during an emergency, which can be punished as either a misdemeanor or felony, especially if done with fraudulent intent in an evacuation area or via electronic means. The bill further clarifies existing law around aggravated arson, stating that amendments to dollar thresholds should be applied prospectively and not benefit defendants who committed crimes before the amendment. These changes aim to strengthen legal protections and penalties during emergency situations, with a focus on preventing opportunistic criminal activities that might exploit vulnerable communities in the aftermath of disasters.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB571