Legislation designed to deter organized retail theft cleared the General Assembly today. Organized retail theft is a threat to local businesses, jobs and security, and Bill A4755 would strengthen penalties and add stronger protections to combat the crime. Assemblyman Joe Danielsen and Assemblywoman Heather Simmons sponsored the legislation.
“New Jerseyans continue to feel the impact of organized retail theft crimes in their wallets and their pocketbooks,” said Assemblyman Danielsen (D-Middlesex, Somerset), Chair of the Public Safety and Preparedness Committee. “The legislation advanced today would help law enforcement as they fight this growing threat. It would also reduce the burden faced by consumers who purchase goods from these retail establishments.”
According to New Jersey Food Council, New Jersey is deprived of an estimated $200 million in sales taxes as a result of retail theft. Organized retail crime can lead to other consequences beyond economic loss, including greater insurance costs for retailers, reductions in store hours, store closures, less inventory, and higher retail costs for consumers.
“The repercussions of organized retail theft in New Jersey are both tangible and far reaching,” said Assemblywoman Simmons (D-Gloucester, Cumberland, Salem). “It’s incumbent upon us as legislators to do what we can to quash criminal activity by ensuring law enforcement has the resources needed to fight this type of crime.”
The bill introduces several provisions aimed at deterring criminal activity while protecting businesses, employees, and consumers. These include measures such as: tougher penalties for those convicted of retail theft and requiring the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs to provide notice on its website to customers on the risk of gift card scams.