Theft of public funds new stand-alone crime established, and criminal penalties provided.

This bill creates a new specific crime for stealing public money held by government entities or third parties administering public programs. It defines the offense as intentionally taking funds without consent, deceiving officials to obtain money, or swindling public resources through trickery. The law sets penalties based on the amount stolen, ranging from up to six years in prison and a $10,000 fine for smaller amounts to up to 24 years in prison and a $100,000 fine for larger sums. Prosecutors will be allowed to combine thefts occurring within a six-month period to determine the total value for sentencing. The changes will take effect on August 1, 2026, and apply only to crimes committed on or after that date.