Why It Matters
Organized retail crime has emerged as a significant economic and public safety issue affecting major American corporations, consumers, and communities. At stake is a coordinated federal response to sophisticated criminal networks that steal in bulk, operate fencing operations through online marketplaces, and finance broader criminal enterprises including drug trafficking and money laundering.
The financial impact is substantial. Industry estimates suggest retailers lost $47.8 billion to retail theft in 2025, with cargo theft increasing 13% in Q2 2025. More concerning is escalating violence: 73% of retailers report shoplifters exhibit more violence and aggression compared to 2024.
What’s at stake:
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Federal enforcement tools: Major retailers including Target, Kroger, Home Depot, and CVS Health have lobbied for the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act to create inter-agency coordination and enhanced prosecutorial powers.
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Consumer impact: Store closures result in job losses exceeding 100 per location, while lower- and moderate-income families bear disproportionate costs through higher prices.
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Law enforcement gaps: 64% of retailers report less than half their theft incidents to law enforcement, with 67% reporting involvement of transnational ORC groups.
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State momentum: 15 states have enacted 19 bills updating criminal codes for ORC, and a bipartisan coalition of 38 state and territory attorneys general has urged Congress to act.
Broader Context
Crime trends, state action, and industry pressure have prompted Congress to hold its December 17 hearing on organized retail crime. The National Retail Federation reported in October 2025 that organized retail theft increased 18% year-over-year.
These criminal networks operate far beyond simple shoplifting. The FBI’s Operation Boiling Point documented that retail theft networks also engage in narcotics trafficking, human smuggling, and money laundering.
The Agenda
Witnesses and Their Backgrounds
To obtain witness information, check the House Judiciary Committee’s official website or the hearing details page as witness lists are typically released closer to the scheduled date.
Between The Lines
Rep. Laurel M. Lee stands out as the committee member with the clearest public position on organized retail crime. The Florida Republican has expressed strong support for the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, calling such legislation "vital for protecting business owners and safeguarding communities."
For other House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance members—including Chairman Rep. Jim Jordan and ranking member Rep. Steve Cohen—available records contain no specific statements on organized retail crime. Their positions will likely emerge during the hearing.
The legislative focal point is the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, which has appeared in multiple congressional sessions with sustained corporate backing.
Competitive Landscape
Major American retailers have mounted a sustained lobbying campaign for federal legislation to combat organized retail crime. Target Corp. has lobbied on H.R. 2853/S. 1404, the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act. Kroger Co., Home Depot Inc., and CVS Health have maintained advocacy across multiple quarters.
Supply chain players including United Parcel Service (UPS) have also advocated for the legislation, reflecting how ORC impacts goods movement infrastructure. The persistent focus across 2024 and 2025 filings demonstrates unified industry push for federal action.
The Bottom Line
The House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on December 17 represents a formal step toward federal intervention following sustained corporate lobbying and bipartisan momentum. The hearing will likely focus on evaluating law enforcement strategies and legislative remedies to address criminal networks exploiting supply chains and online marketplaces. The issue cuts across partisan divides, suggesting potential for collaborative action.
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