IL HB2648

Enhances theft charges from Class A misdemeanor to Class 4 felony when defendant has prior conviction for vehicular hijacking, aggravated vehicular hijacking, or aggravated robbery.

Enhances retail theft charges to Class 4 felony if defendant has prior conviction for forgery or Illinois Vehicle Code violations involving possession of stolen or converted motor vehicles.

Requires that charging documents (information or indictment) state the prior conviction to give notice of intent to treat the charge as a felony, but prior conviction is not an element of the offense and cannot be disclosed to jury unless properly raised during trial.

Effective immediately upon becoming law.