Cargo Theft: Bipartisan Bill Seeks To Put Major Dent in Crime

Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Combat Organized Retail Crime, Cargo Theft

Lawmakers Target Growing Threat of Cargo Theft

A new bill has been introduced in Congress to fight organized retail crime (ORC). The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act is supported by lawmakers from both parties. It was introduced in the U.S. House by Congresswoman Susie Lee (D-NV) and Congressman Dave Joyce (R-OH). Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced a matching bill in the Senate.

Several House members are also co-leading the bill. These include Representatives David Valadao (R-CA), Dina Titus (D-NV), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Laurel Lee (R-FL), and Lou Correa (D-CA).

Bill Would Make ORC a Federal Crime

The bill would make organized retail crime a federal offense. It would also allow judges to order the forfeiture of stolen merchandise.

Supporters say the bill is meant to help law enforcement deal with large theft rings. These groups often operate in multiple states. They may also be linked to other crimes, such as fraud and trafficking.

Homeland Security Center Would Be Created

The legislation would create a new unit within Homeland Security Investigations. The new Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center would be part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

This center would help federal agencies work more closely with local police. It would focus on tracking and stopping large-scale theft operations. The bill would also require regular reports to Congress. These reports would come from both the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice.

Cargo Theft Surged Nationwide in 2024

Nationwide cargo theft reached record levels in 2024, with over 3,600 reported incidents—a 27% increase from the year prior. The average value per theft also climbed to more than $202,000. California and Texas experienced the steepest spikes, particularly in Los Angeles and Dallas counties. Thieves targeted high-value items like copper, electronics, and personal care products, while traditional trailer burglaries and full trailer thefts remained common. These rising trends reflect the growing scale and complexity of cargo theft operations across the country.

Public Safety Concerns Tied to Cargo Theft

Lawmakers say cargo theft does more than harm businesses. They warn that stolen goods are often used to fund other crimes, including drug trafficking and human trafficking. These concerns have helped fuel the push for stronger federal involvement.

“Organized retail crime puts all of us in danger, while hurting consumers, taxpayers, and businesses of all sizes. And the stolen goods fund human trafficking and terrorism,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Our local and state law enforcement are doing incredible work, but we need coordination at the federal level to investigate and prosecute these crimes. Our bipartisan legislation will support law enforcement with the tools they need to crack down on these criminal operations.”

Federal Bill Aims to Address Wider Impact of Cargo Theft

Congressman Joyce also raised the alarm on broader consequences. “Businesses throughout my district are facing the burdens of a rise in organized retail crimes and fraud schemes that are sweeping the nation,” said Joyce. “These criminal organizations are not only harming small businesses and retailers in our communities, but are also putting American consumers at risk of violence and fraud.”

“These crimes also have more widespread consequences for public safety, as these organized groups often resell stolen goods to finance other illicit activities, including drug and human trafficking operations. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislation will give law enforcement the tools they need to put a stop to these rampant crimes,” he added.

Supporters of the bill argue that stronger federal action is essential. They say cargo theft is part of a growing trend with serious impacts on safety, the economy, and communities nationwide.