Palmetto State News

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed approval for the South Carolina House's recent passage of H. 3523, a bill designed to address organized retail crime and shield small businesses from financial losses.

"Small businesses are the backbone of South Carolina’s economy, and they suffer immensely from organized retail theft," stated NFIB State Director Ben Homeyer. "This legislation gives law enforcement and prosecutors the tools they need to crack down on theft rings that exploit retailers and drive up costs for everyone."

The bill, H. 3523, aims to strengthen existing laws by making it illegal to conspire to steal retail property valued at more than $2,000 over a period of 90 days with the intent to resell or profit from stolen goods.

Penalties for engaging in retail theft will be increased under this measure. This includes tougher fines and imprisonment for repeat offenders and those causing property damage or injury during such crimes. Additionally, asset forfeiture provisions are introduced to prevent criminals from profiting off stolen goods, underscoring the state's commitment to protecting local businesses.

"This legislation helps level the playing field for small businesses by targeting large-scale retail theft rings," added Homeyer. "Our members encourage their senators to pass H. 3523 and send this important bill to Governor McMaster for his signature."