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Bill

SB 5644

Deterring criminal conduct involving gift cards.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Wagoner

Washington bill establishing criminal penalties for gift card theft and fraud to combat growing schemes exploiting card liquidity and anonymity.

First reading, referred to Law & Justice.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 5644

Legislative bill overview

SB 5644 addresses criminal activity involving gift cards, likely establishing penalties or enforcement mechanisms for theft, fraud, or unauthorized use of gift cards. The bill was recently introduced in the Washington State Legislature and is currently under review by the Law & Justice Committee.

Why is this important

Gift card fraud and theft have grown as criminals exploit the relative anonymity and liquidity of gift cards. This bill represents an attempt to close legal gaps and deter such crimes, which cost retailers and consumers millions annually while being harder to trace than other theft forms.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of criminality: Unclear whether the bill penalizes sellers who fail to verify ownership, buyers who knowingly purchase stolen cards, or only the initial theft
  • Retail compliance burden: Retailers may face new verification requirements that could slow transactions and increase operational costs
  • Proportionality of penalties: Questions about whether penalties appropriately match the harm caused versus creating excessive criminal liability for minor infractions

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

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