Crimes: looting.

Senator Valladares's proposal to modify California's looting statute recategorizes second-degree burglary committed during declared emergencies as a mandatory felony offense. The legislation addresses criminal acts occurring during states of emergency, local emergencies, or under evacuation orders resulting from natural or human-caused disasters.

The bill establishes a three-tiered penalty structure based on offense severity. Second-degree burglary during emergencies would require state prison time. Grand theft, except of firearms, would remain punishable by either county jail or state prison, while grand theft of firearms would mandate state prison terms. Petty theft during emergencies would constitute a misdemeanor carrying up to six months in county jail.

For probation-eligible cases, the measure sets minimum jail terms - 180 days for burglary and grand theft, 90 days for petty theft - though courts may adjust these requirements if documented circumstances warrant modification. The bill also authorizes courts to mandate community service: up to 240 hours for burglary, 160 hours for grand theft, and 80 hours for petty theft. The legislation maintains existing definitions of emergency conditions while adding specific parameters for evacuation orders issued by state and local authorities.