Bill Caption

Relating to the punishment for the offense of fraudulent destruction, removal, or concealment of a writing that is attached to tangible property.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Under current law, it is considered a Class A misdemeanor to intentionally defraud or harm another by interfering with price tags or somehow interfering with the “writing” on certain property. In effect, the penalty for the fraudulent destruction, removal, or concealment of a writing that is attached to tangible property is harsher than the penalty for stealing that same tangible property. If this bill passes, the penalty would be put onto a graduated scale of punishments tied to the value of the property that was interfered with.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Under current law, someone who steals something worth $10 is subject to a Class C misdemeanor. However, if instead of stealing that property outright, they fraudulently place a $5 price tag on an $10 product they would be subject to a Class A misdemeanor. This bill satisfies our commitment to limited government by removing this imbalance and allowing the punishment to better fit the crime.