Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation aimed at cracking down on theft related to gift cards. The legislation amends the Organized Retail Crime Act to add certain gift card-related actions as a violation of the act.
Key Points:
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- House Bills 4598 and 4599 were introduced by Representatives Mike Harris (R-Waterford) and Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills), respectively.
- A violation of the act would occur if someone acquires, alters, or tampers with a gift card with the intent to defraud.
- Additionally, a violation would occur if a person exploited a gift card holder, issuer, or seller, or obtained something of value with a gift card obtained in violation of the legislation.
- The new law sets a punishment of up to five years, a fine of $5,000, or both. Additionally, the violator would be required to make restitution to the victim(s).
