MS SB2189

Amends the definition of "organized retail theft" to mean obtaining retail merchandise in abnormal quantities for resale through theft, embezzlement, fraud, or false pretense, or recruiting persons to participate in such activities.

Defines "organized retail theft enterprise" or "organized retail fraud enterprise" as an association of two or more persons engaged in transferring or selling merchandise, services, or information of pecuniary value causing loss to victims, with a planned or systematic scheme to carry out such theft or fraud.

Makes it unlawful to conduct, organize, supervise, or manage an organized retail theft or retail fraud enterprise, with criminal conduct including shoplifting, computer fraud, identity fraud, mail fraud, and fraudulent use of social security numbers or credit cards.

Allows aggregation of merchandise values or pecuniary losses across multiple acts when committed pursuant to a single scheme or course of conduct or in furtherance of an organized retail theft or retail fraud enterprise.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.