The argument is that stations are losing a lot of money because of drive offs and police say they don't have the time or the manpower to go after every gas thief.

But if a station has a camera to capture the license plate of the thief, a proposed law would allow the retailer to seek civil action against the thief.

"The person is required to pay the cost of the gas plus pay a 30 dollar penalty," says Rep. Rob Wilkey, D-Scottsville.

The alleged thief has 30 days to pay up...or appeal their case through the legal system.

"I just don't think it's a good piece of legislation," says Rep. Jim Wayne, D-Louisville.

Wayne says the bill makes it too tough for innocent victims to argue their case.

"An ordinary citizen can be falsely accused, because of faulty or mis-information," said Wayne during a House floor debate on Friday.