Kansas Lawmakers Propose Harsher Penalties for Livestock Theft

Bill aims to deter cattle rustling by increasing felony charges and sentences

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A bill that would increase penalties for livestock theft in Kansas has passed the state House with bipartisan support and is now being considered by the Senate. Proponents argue that neighboring states like Oklahoma and Texas have much harsher punishments for cattle rustling, leading thieves to target Kansas where the penalties are less severe.

Why it matters

Livestock theft is a significant problem for Kansas ranchers and farmers, resulting in major financial losses. Proponents believe that tougher penalties could help deter would-be cattle thieves from targeting the state, protecting the agricultural industry.

The details

The proposed bill would raise the penalty for livestock theft to a Level 5 or Level 6 non-person felony, regardless of the value of the stolen animals. This would result in much harsher sentences for those convicted. Proponents argue that neighboring states like Oklahoma and Texas have mandatory minimum sentences of 10 years or even life in prison for cattle theft, along with steep fines, making it less appealing for thieves to operate there.

  • The bill passed the Kansas House with bipartisan support.
  • The Kansas Senate committee heard testimony on the bill on Tuesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Matthew Steele

A proponent of the bill who testified before the Kansas Senate committee.

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What they’re saying

“Think about the guys going by with a trailer -- maybe a horse trailer, four, five, maybe 10 head (of cattle). (In the) state of Oklahoma, (stealing them is) a life sentence and a minimum of $500,000 restitution. State of Texas, 10 years mandatory as well as they have a cattle theft and agricultural theft registry similar to sex offenders.”

— Matthew Steele, Proponent (kwch.com)

What’s next

The Kansas Senate committee did not take any action on the bill on Tuesday. They also heard testimony on a separate bill that would increase penalties for crop theft.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation highlights the ongoing challenge of livestock theft in Kansas and the efforts by lawmakers to crack down on the problem by imposing harsher penalties in an attempt to deter would-be cattle rustlers from targeting the state.