Congress Unites, Urges DHS Intervention in Growing Retail Theft Crisis

Bipartisan lawmakers unite to combat organized retail theft, urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to take decisive action against this escalating crisis.

At a Glance

Over 80 House lawmakers press DHS to address organized retail crime (ORC).
ORC caused nearly $70 billion in losses for U.S. retailers in 2019, with increasing losses each year.
Lawmakers request updates on efforts to establish an organized retail crime coordination center.
Bipartisan support for the issue, with both Republicans and Democrats signing the letter.
California lawmakers approve bipartisan bills to combat retail theft and improve public safety.

Bipartisan Effort to Combat Organized Retail Theft

In a rare display of unity, over 80 House lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are calling on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to take immediate action against organized retail crime (ORC). Led by Rep. David Joyce, R-Ohio, this bipartisan group is demanding updates on DHS efforts to combat the growing threat of ORC, which poses significant risks to public safety and economic stability.

Dozens of bipartisan lawmakers press DHS for action on organized retail theft https://t.co/ea21sKfWU3

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The lawmakers are particularly interested in the progress of establishing an organized retail crime coordination center. This proposed center aims to improve information sharing, resource allocation, and strategic planning among law enforcement agencies to more effectively combat ORC. The initiative began as a bipartisan bill involving Joyce, former Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., and Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev.

The Staggering Impact of Organized Retail Crime

The urgency of addressing ORC is underscored by the staggering financial losses it has inflicted on U.S. retailers. According to a Retail Industry Leaders Association report, ORC caused nearly $70 billion in losses due to stolen goods in 2019 alone, with that number continuing to rise each year. This not only impacts large corporations but also threatens the survival of small businesses and local economies.

The risks associated with ORC extend beyond financial losses. The lawmakers’ letter to DHS highlights the violence often displayed during retail thefts, endangering retail workers and customers alike. Additionally, there are significant health risks posed by stolen goods such as baby formula or pharmaceuticals, which may be improperly stored or tampered with before reaching unsuspecting consumers.

The Path Forward

As both federal and state lawmakers push for stronger measures against organized retail crime, the retail industry continues to grapple with the challenges posed by this growing threat. The battle against organized retail crime is complex and multifaceted, requiring a coordinated effort between lawmakers, law enforcement agencies, and the retail industry. As these bipartisan initiatives move forward, it is clear that addressing this crisis is not just about protecting businesses, but also about ensuring the safety and well-being of communities across the nation.