An act relating to the aggregate value of stolen property in certain crimes

S 168 (An act relating to the aggregate value of stolen property in certain crimes) changes how Vermont courts classify theft offenses. It allows the total value of multiple stolen items or separate thefts within 180 days to be added together to determine if a crime is a felony (grand larceny or felony retail theft) or misdemeanor. Specifically, if the combined value of stolen property exceeds $900, it upgrades the charge from petit larceny/misdemeanor retail theft to grand larceny/felony retail theft. This directly affects individuals committing repeated thefts (e.g., multiple shoplifting incidents) where the cumulative value meets or exceeds $900 within the 180-day window. The bill amends Vermont statutes §2501 (grand larceny) and §2575-2577 (retail theft penalties).