Kamala Harris, during her tenure as California Attorney General, was involved in the original laws that allowed $950 daily loot limits. These laws have been a point of contention, driving businesses out of the state. The recent surge in looting incidents, particularly in Long Beach, has put the spotlight on Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration.
The fact that California District Attorneys don’t consider looting a felony except during emergencies is a significant problem. Looting should never be considered acceptable. Elon Musk recently questioned, “Looting is not normally considered a felony?” This sentiment echoes the frustration of many Californians who believe that the current laws are too lenient.
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In early 2025, California officials proposed making looting during emergencies a felony, as wildfires continue to devastate parts of the state. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer called on Governor Newsom to amend the special legislative session to pass legislation making looting during a local emergency punishable by a state prison sentence. This proposal aims to send a strong message to opportunistic thieves that such crimes will not be tolerated.
Despite these efforts, the perception remains that the current laws are insufficient to deter looting. Critics argue that the $950 threshold for shoplifting, established under Proposition 47, has contributed to the problem. Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reclassified certain non-violent offenses, including shoplifting, from felonies to misdemeanors if the value of stolen goods is less than $950. While misdemeanors are still crimes, they carry less severe penalties compared to felonies, leading to concerns that such offenses are not taken as seriously.
The ongoing debate about looting laws in California highlights the need for a balanced approach that protects businesses and communities while ensuring justice for offenders. As the state continues to grapple with these issues, it is crucial to monitor the effectiveness of proposed legislative changes and their impact on crime rates.
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