Makes offenses against gift card holders subject to the penalties for larceny.

Rhode Island Gift Card Fraud Bill

This bill would make certain dishonest or fraudulent acts involving gift cards a form of theft under Rhode Island law. Specifically, it would treat offenses committed against gift card holders — such as draining a card's balance through deception or fraud — the same way the law treats larceny (stealing). This means anyone found guilty of gift card fraud could face the same fines and potential jail time that currently apply to theft offenses in Rhode Island.

The bill would primarily affect consumers who use gift cards, as well as businesses and individuals who might attempt to commit fraud involving those cards. For everyday shoppers, this could provide stronger legal protection if someone tampers with, manipulates, or dishonestly takes the value loaded onto their gift cards. For potential wrongdoers, it would create a clearer and more serious legal consequence for this type of fraud.

Currently, this bill has been introduced in the Rhode Island Senate and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee, which has recommended it be held for further study. That means it has not yet moved forward in the legislative process and could be revised, advanced, or set aside in a future session. No final action has been taken on the bill at this time.