WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 477

TO CREATE THE OFFENSE OF THEFT OF EQUIPMENT RENTAL SERVICES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Stubblefield

SB 477 aimed to combat theft and damage of rental equipment in Arkansas, establishing clear penalties and restitution to protect rental businesses from losses.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 477

Summary of Senate Bill 477: Theft of Equipment Rental Services

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 477
Introduced: March 17, 2025
Status: Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Sponsor: Senator G. Stubblefield

Senate Bill 477 aimed to establish a new offense specifically addressing the theft of equipment rental services in the state of Arkansas. The bill sought to define the parameters of this offense and outline the penalties associated with it.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 477 was to create a legal framework for prosecuting individuals who unlawfully retain or damage rented equipment. This legislation was intended to protect equipment rental businesses from losses incurred due to unauthorized control or damage to their property.

Key Provisions

SB 477 proposed the following significant changes to Arkansas law:

  1. Definition of Offense:

    • The bill defined "equipment rental service" as a commercial service providing equipment for rent or lease.
    • A person would commit the offense of theft of equipment rental services if they:
      • Unauthorized Control: Retain equipment after the lease or rental period without permission.
      • Damage: Cause damage to the rented equipment that prevents it from being rented or leased without repairs.

  2. Defense Against Prosecution:

    • Individuals could defend themselves against prosecution if they compensated the lessor for:
      • The value of the rental service from the expiration of the lease until the equipment's return.
      • Any damage caused to the equipment.

  3. Penalties:

    • The bill established a tiered penalty system based on the value of the rental service or damage:
      • Class B Felony: $25,000 or more.
      • Class C Felony: Between $5,000 and $25,000.
      • Class D Felony: Between $1,000 and $5,000.
      • Class A Misdemeanor: $1,000 or less.
    • Courts would be required to order restitution to the lessor for the value of the rental service and any damages incurred.

Impact

If enacted, SB 477 would have impacted equipment rental businesses by providing them with a legal recourse against theft and damage. It aimed to deter potential offenders through the establishment of clear penalties and restitution requirements.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 17, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • March 17, 2025: Rules suspended; bill read a second time and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee.
  • May 5, 2025: Bill died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

In summary, SB 477 was designed to address the growing concern of theft and damage in the equipment rental industry, providing a structured approach to prosecution and penalties. However, the bill did not progress past the committee stage and ultimately did not become law.

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

Sign in to ask a question.