House Approves Barrett-Backed Bill to Target Organized Retail Theft

Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (H.R. 2853). This bipartisan legislation was co-sponsored by Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and would create a coordinated, multi-agency response to tackle evolving trends in organized retail theft.

Specifically, this bill would establish an Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center within Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This Coordination Center will allow increased collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, retailers, and subject matter experts to share valuable resources and create a comprehensive strategy to combat the growing trend. The legislation would also strengthen tools for federal prosecutors to crack down on organized retail thieves and reclaim stolen property.

"My first job after I graduated college was working loss prevention in retail, so I know firsthand the damage theft can do to a business. Organized retail theft hurts small businesses, raises costs for hardworking families, and threatens supply chains across the country and mid-Michigan," said Barrett. "This bipartisan legislation gives law enforcement the tools and coordination they need to finally crack down on these dangerous criminal enterprises and keep our communities safe. I'm proud to have co-sponsored this bill and will continue working to protect our local businesses and take dangerous criminals off our streets."

This vote comes as retailers across the nation are seeing a rise in organized cargo and retail crime. According to the National Retail Federation, there was a combined 19% increase in external shoplifting and merchandise theft incidents from 2023 to 2024. At the same time, product manufacturers and the supply chain are experiencing a rise in organized cargo theft across the United States, with cargo and supply chain theft increasing for 50% of retailers in 2024.

CLICK HERE to read the bill.