Empire Report
November 20, 2023
“Retailers throughout the state are extremely disappointed to learn that Governor Hochul vetoed a bipartisan bill that would have established the New York State Organized Retail Crime Task Force. Stores that invest in New York communities lose $4.4 billion to retail theft, and this illegal activity certainly has community safety implications.
Addressing this complicated issue requires interagency coordination and consistent communication among all stakeholders, including the retail industry. On behalf of the largest private sector employer in the economy, the Retail Council of New York State continues to meet with lawmakers, prosecutors and law enforcement to hold organized retail crime syndicates and repeat shoplifters accountable.
I spoke with Governor Hochul at length to discuss the need for immediate action and an effective, collaborative response to this problem. She made it abundantly clear that retail theft prevention will be a priority for her administration, and we look forward to working with her to achieve results.”
Melissa O’Connor
President and CEO
Retail Council of New York State
