Theft: receiving stolen property: firearms.
If approved by voters, this legislation would change how firearm theft is treated under the law, aligning its penalties with the existing severity of the theft of firearms, which is already classified as grand theft irrespective of value. The bill must be voted on during the next statewide general election to become effective, reflecting California's legal framework that allows voters to decide on changes to initiative statutes like Proposition 47, which this bill seeks to amend.
Assembly Bill 2545, introduced by Assembly Member Muratsuchi, seeks to amend Section 496 of the Penal Code concerning theft, particularly focusing on the buying and receiving of stolen firearms. Currently, under California law, theft of property exceeding $950 is classified as grand theft, while purchasing stolen property valued below this amount is treated as a misdemeanor, except in certain cases involving prior serious offenses. AB2545 aims to eliminate the value restriction related to firearms, making the act of knowingly purchasing or receiving a stolen firearm punishable as either a misdemeanor or felony, regardless of the firearm's market value.
The discussions surrounding AB2545 highlight concerns from various stakeholders, particularly how the bill might impact individuals with prior convictions, as it reintroduces potential felony charges for receiving stolen firearms overall. Opponents argue that this could lead to increased penalties and incarceration rates, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Meanwhile, proponents argue that strengthening penalties for stolen firearms could act as a deterrent against gun theft and improve public safety, reflecting a broader sentiment around crime prevention in California.