NFIB State Director Ben Homeyer today applauded the South Carolina House for passing H. 3523, critical legislation aimed at combating organized retail crime and protecting small businesses from financial harm.

“Small businesses are the backbone of South Carolina’s economy, and they suffer immensely from organized retail theft,” Homeyer said. “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.”

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

It increases penalties for those who engage in retail theft, including tougher fines and imprisonment for repeat offenders and those who cause property damage or injury during the commission of such crimes. The measure also introduces asset forfeiture provisions to ensure that criminals do not profit from stolen goods, reinforcing the state’s commitment to safeguarding local businesses.

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