The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the bipartisan Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA), legislation aimed at addressing the growing impact of organized retail theft and supply chain crime across the country. The bill, introduced by Josh Riley, would expand federal tools available for investigating and prosecuting organized retail crime networks.
According to supporters of the measure, the legislation would allow prosecutors to combine theft activity over 12 months when pursuing charges tied to organized crime operations. The bill also includes provisions focused on anti-money laundering enforcement, asset forfeiture, prepaid and gift card fraud, and improved coordination through a Department of Homeland Security center dedicated to organized retail and supply chain crime.
Retail industry data cited by lawmakers estimates that organized retail crime costs businesses and consumers more than $121 billion annually. Reports from retailers also show continued increases in cargo theft, supply chain theft, digital fraud, and large-scale organized theft operations. Supporters say the legislation is intended to strengthen enforcement efforts while helping reduce financial impacts on businesses, workers, and consumers.
