Crime continues to be a major problem for businesses large and small across the country. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has released a report titled 'Crime Risks to Business 2023,' highlighting the surge in retail and related crime and outlining the progress made in the fight against it [cedafca6]. According to the report, mentions of organized retail crime by companies listed on the S&P 500 have already surpassed last year's numbers by 43%. Small businesses have also been significantly affected, with 56% reporting theft and 53% stating that the problem has worsened. The report estimates that $100 billion has been lost to general crime in the past year, with 26.5% of businesses reporting an increase in organized retail theft [cedafca6].
To combat the online sale of stolen, counterfeit, and dangerous consumer products, the Chamber recommends the passage of the INFORM Act [cedafca6]. Additionally, several states have taken action to address organized retail crime, with twelve states creating new statutes or enhancing penalties, and 19 state legislatures implementing new laws [cedafca6]. The Chamber hopes that the report will serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders in their efforts to combat the surge in crime [cedafca6].