The LOOTER Act of 2025 creates new federal crimes for theft committed during declared natural disasters and emergencies. Specifically, it makes it a federal offense to steal property (petit larceny or grand larceny) in any state where a county has an active federal emergency declaration under the Stafford Disaster Relief Act. Petit larceny during disasters would be punishable by up to one year in prison and/or fines, while grand larceny would carry up to five years in prison and/or fines. This legislation affects anyone who commits theft in disaster areas and gives federal prosecutors the ability to charge these crimes alongside or instead of state charges. The bill contains no specific funding provisions or implementation timeline beyond its effective date upon passage.
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