Numerous bipartisan legislators urge DHS to take action against organized retail theft.

A group of over 75 House members is urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address organized retail crime (ORC), a growing issue that has affected cities and states nationwide.

The risk of ORC is not only due to the violence displayed during retail theft, but also the health risks posed by consuming stolen goods like baby formula or pharmaceuticals, which may be improperly stored or tampered with prior to the final purchase by a consumer.

"In addition to posing a threat to public safety, ORC also harms Main Street businesses and the economy. A report from the Retail Industry Leader’s Association revealed that ORC caused over $70 billion in financial losses due to stolen goods from U.S. retailers in 2019. This number has steadily increased, affecting businesses of all sizes, communities, and consumers."

Rep. David Joyce, R-Ohio, has written a letter requesting that the Department of Homeland Security provide Congress with information about its efforts to address a specific issue.

The DHS Homeland Security Investigations office is being scrutinized by lawmakers for its progress in establishing a coordinated retail crime center.

The establishment would significantly improve law enforcement and businesses' ability to combat threats from sophisticated criminal networks, as stated.

"Effective prevention and enforcement actions could be achieved through better information sharing, resource allocation, and strategic planning at this Center," they wrote.

Organized retail theft has become a bipartisan issue as crime rings expand to more U.S. towns and cities, resulting in significant effects on retailers.

The letter is signed by 46 Republicans and 30 Democrats.

Joyce was the chair of the subcommittee for the House Appropriations Committee's homeland security panel, which passed legislation for a coordination center for organized retail crime in fiscal 2024.

The push for this originated as a bipartisan bill led by Joyce, former Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., and Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev.