The law includes increased criminal penalties for those who assault retail employees, which will now be a felony in the state.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Kathy Hochul signed new protections for small business owners and retail workers into law Wednesday.
The governor joined a coalition of front-line retail workers and small business owners in an event to celebrate the law. The bill includes increased criminal penalties for assaulting a retail worker, which is a felony in New York state.
“Do you think it's okay to go into a retail store and assault an employee? You'll be charged with a felony. There are serious consequences to this, serious consequences. That was important to me,” Hochul said. said.
Prosecutors will now be able to add up the value of stolen goods when filing theft charges, and it will also be illegal to sell stolen goods through third-party sellers.
“We do it with all of those things in mind,” Hochul said. “The invisible heroes of our cities and communities, the owners of supermarkets and bodegas who make sure we have everything we want, from diapers and baby formula to our favorite drinks, chips and popcorn. All people. But without them, it doesn't work.”
It also led to millions of additional dollars being poured into small and medium-sized businesses to invest in security.
Hochul's anti-theft plan includes $25 million for a retail theft unit within the New York State Police, $15 million for district attorneys and local law enforcement agencies, and $5 million to cover corporate costs. .
In March, Hochul was joined by New York City boutique owners who wanted the bill passed.
Deborah Koenigsberger, owner of Noir et Blanc TTH Vintage Boutique, said in March that New York stores that have had to deal with an increase in retail theft simply want to stay open and serve their communities. ” he said. “The Legislature must act to ensure these stores have the protections they need and that workers and consumers feel safe,” she said.
