Bill
Bill > HB1175
summary
Introduced
02/03/2026
02/03/2026
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Article 1 of Chapter 8 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to theft, so as to provide for the offense of theft by shoplifting of essential items; to provide for penalty and for prosecution by citation; to provide for punishment; to provide for a definition; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a new offense for the theft by shoplifting of "essential items," which are defined as food or toiletry goods or merchandise necessary for a person's daily survival and basic well-being. If the value of these essential items stolen is less than $100, the offense is a misdemeanor, and the punishment will be determined by the local governing authority of the county where the theft occurred. Importantly, local authorities can allow these cases to be prosecuted through a citation, similar to a traffic ticket, and instead of fines, courts may order community service, potentially at a local food pantry or nonprofit, as a condition of probation. However, a third conviction for theft by shoplifting of an essential item will result in penalties similar to those for other shoplifting offenses.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
House Gullett Subcommittee Of Judiciary Non-civil (upon Adjournment Of Judiciary) (15:00:00 2/19/2026 132 CAP) (on 02/19/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72786 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/241350 |
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