California Bill Would Let Retailers Get Restraining Orders Against Thieves

Supporters see the measure as another way to rein in theft, but opponents balk at giving retailers’ lawyers a role in enforcement.

Union Square visitors look at damage to a Louis Vuitton store in San Francisco on Nov. 21, 2021. Danielle Echeverria/San Francisco Chronicle via AP

A bill aimed at cracking down on retail theft by allowing courts to issue restraining orders against theft offenders passed the California Legislature Aug. 12 and was sent to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for a signature.

AB 3209 would authorize a court to issue a criminal restraining order prohibiting a person sentenced for a retail theft offense from entering that same retail establishment, its parking lots, or any potential franchise or chain locations.