City Rejects Shoplifting Bylaw | Calgary News

Calgary News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 28, 2026 · 1m

A city councillor proposed a bylaw to fine shoplifters of items under $100, hoping to ease police workload and fill gaps in prosecution due to court backlogs. But city administration shot it down—federal law already covers theft under $5,000, and municipalities can’t duplicate federal jurisdiction. After checking 20 Canadian cities, they found no one’s done this. Police and retailers are frustrated, but the city insists the idea is legally shaky and could face court challenges. With thefts rising but charges falling, officials say it’s time to find smarter, constitutionally sound solutions…