Michael Hanson with the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) discusses RILA’s most recent initiatives in the battle against retail crime, including the “Buy Safe America” initiative as well as his role in leading the push for the INFORM Act, a bi-partisan legislative initiative requiring online marketplaces to collect and verify third-party sellers’ basic seller information, and for sellers to provide that information to consumers. While these platforms have the power to connect legitimate businesses with customers, they lack oversight and are being exploited by unscrupulous sellers and criminals selling stolen and counterfeit goods. Now is the time to enact common-sense measures that promote safety, transparency, and accountability.
Michael Hanson
Senior Executive Vice President of Public Affairs, RILA
Michael Hanson is RILA’s Senior Executive Vice President of Public Affairs, overseeing the Association’s government affairs and communications arms. Hanson is responsible for identifying the industry’s top public policy challenges and working with both leading retailers and key stakeholders to elevate the industry in Washington, DC and across the country.
In response to the scope and severity of organized retail crime concerns across the country, there has been an increased effort on the part of retailers and law enforcement agencies to share information regarding organized retail crime at the local, state, and regional levels. Organized retail crime associations have helped provide that vehicle, opening doors to improve legislation, enhance investigations, and build cooperative relationships in the battle against organized retail crime.
In appreciation and support of all of their local and regional efforts, LP Magazine has prepared an exciting series of webinars, podcasts and virtual conferences to promote and further the mission of these vital organizations.
Watch the full 2020 ORCAs in Action Virtual Summit.
To learn more about the INFORM Act, see Lobbying for the INFORM Act to Prevent Selling Fake or Stolen Products Online by RILA’s Lisa LaBruno.