On Tuesday the Oregon State Senate passed Senate Bill 340 which significantly increases penalties for organized retail theft.
Under SB 340, individuals convicted of organized retail theft will face harsher penalties. The new law will also amend and strengthen current statutes to allow law enforcement and prosecutors greater flexibility to detect, deter, and hold accountable those who commit organized retail theft. Finally, it will create more accountability for people who threaten retail workers while committing theft.
“Organized retail theft is a threat to consumers, employees, and local businesses,” said Senator Floyd Prozanski (D – Eugene). “The passage of Senate Bill 340 is a strong statement that we will not tolerate organized retail theft in our state and will work to ensure safe communities for all.”
SB 340 was developed from the Organized Retail Crime Task Force, which is made up of industry and labor stakeholders negatively impacted by organized retail crime.
SB 340 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.