After years of efforts and collaboration, the Minnesota Retailers Association’s ORC Definition Bill has passed through the legislative process and was signed by the governor.
The passage of this bill was made possible through the strong partnership between the Minnesota Retailers Association (MnRA) and the bill’s authors, Representative Zack Stephenson and Senator Ron Latz.
The Minnesota Retailers Association said that advancing this legislation was bolstered by the invaluable support received from the Minnesota Organized Retail Crime Association, including its leaders Cody Johnson and Taylor Wiechert, and other key stakeholder organizations. Through their expertise and guidance, we were able to deliver a strong message during the legislative process.
“Addressing organized retail crime has been a longtime priority for Minnesota’s retailers, and for good reason,” MnRA said in a statement. “These criminal activities pose a significant threat to the integrity of businesses, the safety of our employees and customers, and the overall economic health of our communities. By passing this bill into law, we take a crucial step forward in equipping law enforcement agencies, financial investigators, and prosecutors with the necessary tools to combat and deter these criminal enterprises.”
The ORC definition bill will provide a clear and comprehensive framework to identify and prosecute organized retail crime. It will define ORC, establish consequences for offenders, and enable law enforcement agencies to collaborate more effectively with retailers in investigating and preventing these crimes. Furthermore, it will serve as a strong deterrent by sending a powerful message to potential criminals that their actions will not be welcome in the state.
“While we celebrate the new law, we recognize that our work is far from over,” MnRA continued. “The implementation and enforcement of this legislation will require ongoing cooperation and coordination among retailers, law enforcement agencies, and the judicial system. MnRA remains committed to actively engaging with our members and partners to ensure the effective implementation of this law and to continue our efforts in combating organized retail crime in Minnesota.”
To celebrate this achievement and express gratitude for members’ continued support, MnRA invites retailers and key business partners to a legislative wrap-up event. The event will take place on June 8 at the Minneapolis Cider Company and feature a chance to try or show off your pickleball skills. It will be an opportunity to network, reflect on the session’s outcomes, and discuss the implications for our industry moving forward.