H 1717 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to the theft of bulk merchandise containers

This bill makes it a crime to intentionally take bulk containers (like those used for milk, eggs, or beverages) from stores without permission, with the intent to permanently keep them. It directly affects individuals who steal these containers from merchants. The law sets tiered penalties: first offense fines up to $100, second offense $100-$250, third or subsequent offenses up to $500 or 6 months in jail. If stolen containers are worth $100+ in retail value, penalties increase to up to $1,000 or 1 year in jail. The bill defines the containers as those used by retailers for transporting, storing, or carrying products.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
Senate Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025 Last action Mar 26, 2026
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Senate · Passed
Senate concurred
Feb 27, 2025
House · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Colleen Garry
Colleen Garry
DDemocratic
MA
36th Middlesex