CA AB1802

Extends the crime of organized retail theft indefinitely by removing the January 1, 2026 sunset date, making the offense permanent law.

Maintains existing penalties: misdemeanor imprisonment up to one year, or felony imprisonment under Penal Code Section 1170(h) when violations occur on two or more separate occasions within 12 months with merchandise value exceeding $950.

Keeps the definition of organized retail theft covering four categories: theft in concert with others, receiving stolen merchandise in groups, acting as an agent to steal, and recruiting or financing theft operations.

Extends operation of the regional property crimes task force indefinitely, requiring the California Highway Patrol to coordinate with the Department of Justice to identify high-crime areas and assist local law enforcement.

Specifies that no state reimbursement is required to local agencies because costs result from changes to crime definitions and penalties under existing constitutional provisions.