Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Addressing Rise in Organized Retail Thefts

Lawndale News Chicago's Bilingual Newspaper - Business

Lawndale News Chicago's Bilingual Newspaper - Business

Governor Pritzker joined Attorney General Kwame Raoul, lawmakers, advocates, and law enforcement officials to sign legislation designed to combat a nationwide rise in coordinated retail thefts. House Bill 1091, otherwise known as the INFORM Act, enforces the new crime of Organized Retail Theft. Those who violate the crime by knowingly engaging with others in a theft valued at $300 or more would be guilty of a Class 3 felony. Those who engage in retail theft from one or more establishments would be guilty of a Class 2 felony. This legislation is specifically aimed at a multi-billion-dollar industry carrying out sophisticated theft operations to turn a profit on the resale market. Last December alone, Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force retrieved $1 million worth of stolen goods from storage units. In addition to the INFORM Act, Illinois is advancing efforts to reimagine public safety. Through the Reimagine Public Safety program, $250 million will be deployed to disrupt cycles of violence in neighborhoods where it’s needed most through community-based solutions. This legislation is effective January 1, 2023.

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