Albany, N.Y. (WBEN) - New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday morning the state will increase efforts to take down retail theft rings statewide while also announcing proposed legislation that increases protections for retail workers.
"As Governor, I'm not going to stand by and watch brazen thieves wreak havoc in their shops and destroy everything they've [business owners] built. And I know how hard it is on their worker. Sleepless nights stressing over the next encounter with these menacing criminals," said Gov. Hochul during her announcement.
Under her proposed legislation, violence against retail workers will carry similar penalties to those handed out for assaulting first responders.
"These individuals are very exposed, especially in a small shop with just one worker. They don't have any way to protect themselves. They're literally on the front line."
The Governor says to enforce the new rules the state will launch specialized units, increase communication between law enforcement agencies and increase the role of State Police. Gov. Hochul has proposed $25 million in her FY25 Executive budget to establish a dedicated retail theft team within the State Police.
A collaboration between state and federal agencies has also been proposed by the Governor as many retail theft rings operate across state lines.
Small business owners will also have access to a $5 million tax credit that can be used towards security improvements like cameras.
"This is an important fight to take on because the status quo, the lawlessness, the chaos that is going on in our stores, our communities all across the state of New York must stop."
