Advocating for Stiffer ATM Crime Penalties – July 2023 Update

Congressman John Rose (R TN) introduced the “Safe Access to Cash Act” (H.R. 3398) on May 17. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D MD), who sits on the House Judiciary Committee, was the initial co-sponsor. Since the bill was introduced, two additional co-sponsors are now supporting the measure, Reps Hank Johnson (D GA) and Donald Payne (D NJ).

At the state level, the Missouri ATM crime bill (SB 186) was signed into law by Governor Mike Parson on July 7, 2023. The legislature there has already adjourned sine die. This measure modifies the penalties related to ATM crime. It adds the offense of property damage in the first degree for intentionally damaging or otherwise making the ATM inoperable.  If damages exceed $750, it is a Class C felony.

Governor John Bel Edwards signed Louisiana HB 94 into law on June 8, 2023. In addition to establishing the crime of ATM theft, the bill also established the crime of intentionally “destroying, damaging, impairing, tampering with, or otherwise rendering inoperable” an ATM. Both crimes carry penalties of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.