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H 1717

An Act relative to the theft of bulk merchandise containers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Colleen Garry

Massachusetts bill establishes criminal penalties for stealing bulk merchandise containers used in commercial shipping and transport operations.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1717

Legislative bill overview

H 1717 creates legal penalties and enforcement mechanisms for the theft of bulk merchandise containers—large industrial containers used to transport goods in commerce. The bill establishes it as a specific offense distinct from general larceny, likely with defined penalties based on container value or merchandise content.

Why is this important

Bulk container theft has become a significant problem affecting supply chains, retail operations, and shipping costs. By creating a dedicated statute, Massachusetts would provide law enforcement with clearer tools to prosecute these thefts and potentially deter the practice, which often involves organized groups stripping containers for valuable contents or reselling containers themselves.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: What qualifies as a "bulk merchandise container"? The scope matters for enforcement—overly broad definitions could capture items like pallets or bins, while narrow ones may miss actual theft targets.
  • Penalty proportionality: Determining appropriate penalties requires balancing retailer/shipper losses against fairness for defendants, especially regarding whether penalties match other larceny statutes or exceed them.
  • Enforcement feasibility: Questions about tracking container ownership, proving theft intent, and distinguishing between legitimate container movement and theft in commercial contexts where containers frequently change hands.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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