Cracking Down on Retail Crime: New York and California Governors Take Action

The Governors of New York and California Announce Plans to Crack Down on Retail Crime

The governors of New York and California have unveiled comprehensive plans to address the issue of retail crime. In response to growing concerns from trade associations and police departments, new legislation will be introduced to increase penalties for retail crime offenses. Furthermore, additional funding will be allocated to enhance the capabilities of police departments and district attorney’s offices in combatting theft.

Addressing Voter Concerns and Challenging Partisan Divisions

Governors Kathy Hochul of New York and Gavin Newsom of California, representing major Democratic strongholds, have made tackling retail theft a top priority, as voters from across the political spectrum identify crime as a significant concern ahead of the 2024 election. This shift in focus challenges traditional partisan fault lines, with Democrats historically emphasizing addressing underlying causes of crime, such as poverty and inequality.

The Rise of Legislation Targeting Retail Crime

Since 2022, nine states, including six in 2023, have enacted laws to impose stricter penalties for organized retail crime. New York and California may soon join this list. Retailers and trade associations nationwide have been actively involved in advocating for these bills.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Proposed Legislation

It remains difficult to ascertain whether theft offenses are increasing on a national level due to the underreporting and detection challenges associated with this type of crime. The potential impact of the proposed legislation also raises questions. Prior experts have cautioned that increasing penalties for retail crime offenses may not necessarily reduce theft and could disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Similarly, strategies implemented to combat the illegal drug trade have had limited success in reducing drug use and availability.

Key Initiatives and Measures Proposed by Governors Hochul and Newsom

Governor Hochul’s Plan

In her State of the State address, Governor Hochul outlined her intentions to introduce bills that would establish criminal penalties for online marketplaces and third-party sellers involved in the sale of stolen goods. Additionally, she aims to strengthen penalties for individuals who assault retail employees. Hochul plans to establish two task forces dedicated to addressing organized retail theft rings and so-called smash and grab robberies. To support these efforts, increased funding for state police departments and district attorney’s offices is proposed, alongside a tax credit for business owners implementing store security measures.

Governor Newsom’s Plan

Governor Newsom announced a $1.1 billion investment over the next four years to enhance “safety and security” in California, with $373.5 million specifically allocated to combat organized retail theft. This funding will support sheriff’s and police departments, as well as district attorney’s offices, in implementing prosecution efforts. Newsom is advocating for new legislation to address organized retail crime, targeting repeat offenders and professional thieves who resell stolen goods. Proposed measures include increased penalties and prison time for retail theft, as well as changes to the state penal code to enable aggregation of theft incidents for more effective prosecution.

“We mean business in this space,” declared Governor Newsom.