Governor Signs Ghanbari's FORCE Act into Law

COLUMBUS- State Rep. Haraz N. Ghanbari (R-Perrysburg) announced the signing of the Fight Organized Retail Crime & Empower Law Enforcement Act by Governor Mike DeWine during a bill signing ceremony Wednesday at the Statehouse. The legislation, officially known as House Bill 366, prioritizes the safety and well-being of Ohio retailers and their customers.

“I am honored and excited to see House Bill 366, The FORCE Act, signed into law by Governor DeWine,” said Ghanbari. “This legislation is a critical step in combating organized retail theft, providing law enforcement and prosecutors with the tools they need to hold offenders accountable and protect Ohio businesses. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues, stakeholders, and Governor DeWine for their support in advancing this important initiative to safeguard our communities and strengthen our economy."

The law, which is scheduled to take effect in 90 days, will enhance the legal framework to safeguard both retailers and consumers against large, intricate Organized Retail Crime (ORC) networks. A key feature of the FORCE Act is the establishment of a statewide task force in collaboration with the Ohio Attorney General and the Organized Crime Investigations Commission. This task force will offer vital resources and assistance to local law enforcement agencies and prosecutors.

“Consumers bear the cost when organized retail theft goes unchecked,” said Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. “With this law, we aim to make sure the thieves are the ones who pay the price. I’m grateful to State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari and State Sen. George Lang for carrying the FORCE Act across the finish line.”

In addition, HB 366 provides resources for a statewide real-time information sharing platform so loss prevention executives and law enforcement can communicate and respond to ORC incidents as they occur and act accordingly. The FORCE Act also makes the necessary updates to the law to aggregate offenses and show a clear pattern of behavior that differentiates ORC from petty shoplifting.