RAN July 2023

The Future of Nevada’s Industry: The Imperative of K-12 Accountability

THE VITALITY AND COMPETITIVENESS OF NEVADA’S RETAI L INDUSTRY hinge on a well-prepared and adaptable workforce. This starts with a strong educational foundation, particularly at the K-12 level. As employers, educators, and policymakers, we have an obligation to ensure our young people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and work ethic they need to succeed in the modern retail environment.

This responsibility requires us not merely to invest in education but also to hold ourselves accountable for the results. Accountability in K-12 education encompasses a broad spectrum of factors, including academic achievement, student growth, graduation rates, and the preparation of students for post-secondary success or entry into the workforce.

In Nevada, we face significant challenges in education. The state ranks near the bottom nationally in education

By Bryan Wachter

Wachter

quality and student achievement. Despite some improvements, our public schools still lag behind those in other states in key areas like reading and math proficiency. This situation can undermine our efforts to build a vibrant retail sector that contributes positively to our economy and society.

An accountable K-12 education system is one where schools are held to high standards of performance and outcomes. It is a system where teachers are supported and encouraged to innovate while also being held responsible for their

students’ learning. It is a system where parents are engaged and informed about their children’s progress and where students are challenged and inspired to reach their full potential. But accountability doesn’t stop at the school gates. The retail industry must also play its part in nurturing and shaping the future workforce. Retailers can contribute by forging partnerships with schools to provide real-world learning experiences, offering internships, and mentoring students. They can also advocate for policies and

Bryan

Industry Updates

NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION URGES CONGRESS TO ADVANCE ORC LEGISLATION

In a June 12, 2023 news release, the National Retail Federation is urging Congress to advance the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, aiming to strengthen law enforcement resources to address growing organized retail crime (ORC). The NRF has submitted a statement ahead of an upcoming hearing by the House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee, highlighting concerns about retail workers’ safety and escalating business costs due to ORC. Recent research by the NRF and K2 Integrity shows that ORC is nearing a $100 billion problem, underscoring the need for federal solutions. The NRF has been central to efforts combating ORC, contributing to the enactment of the INFORM Act and launching a national campaign in favor of the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act.

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION PUTS ONLINE MARKETPLACES ON NOTICE

In a June 20, 2023 news release, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has informed 50 online marketplaces about their need to comply with the INFORM Consumers Act, which takes effect on June 27. The Act requires online marketplaces to verify highvolume third-party sellers’ identities to safeguard consumers from counterfeit, unsafe, and stolen goods. The FTC’s letters underline the Act’s responsibilities and the possible civil penalties for non-compliance.

The FTC has developed educational materials to guide businesses about their obligations under the Act and is set to enforce it fully, in collaboration with state partners.

NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION ECONOMIST SAYS CONDITIONS LOOK LIKE SOFT LANDING, NOT RECESSION

In a June 6, 2023 news release the National Retail Federation Chief Economist, Jack Kleinhenz, has indicated that the US economy shows conflicting signals. While surveys point towards low consumer confidence, actual spending data suggest optimism, driven by a strong job market and rising wages. The revised GDP growth for Q1 is 1.1%, lower than the initial estimate of 1.3%. Despite economic cooling due to the Federal Reserve’s measures to control inflation, the US hasn’t hit recession. Increased personal consumption and income in April imply economic resilience despite a drop in the Consumer Confidence Index.

FMI SUPPORTS ACTIONS TO HELP SOLVE ONGOING COIN CIRCULATION CHALLENGES

In a June 5, 2023 news release FMI - The Food Industry Association, on behalf of the US Coin Task Force (USCTF), urges the American public and financial institutions to address the ongoing issues with coin circulation in the economy. Persistent disruption from the pandemic’s onset has resulted in over 60% of circulating coins being held by consumers. The USCTF encourages consumers to use exact change, deposit excess coins, or use coin redemption kiosks to stimulate coin flow. Simultaneously, they urge financial institutions to deposit surplus coins with the Federal Reserve and only order new coins based on customer demand. Tools and best practices for improving coin circulation are provided by the USCTF. More resources are available at getcoinmoving. org.

The Future of Nevada’s Industry

Continued from page 1 programs that promote quality education and skills development.

The retail industry, with its diverse range of roles and skills, is an excellent training ground for young people. It offers opportunities to learn customer service,

teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and digital skills - all essential competencies in the 21stcentury workplace. By bridging the gap between education and work, we can better prepare students for success, whether they choose to

build a career in retail or pursue other paths.

The future of Nevada’s retail industry is intrinsically linked to the state of our K-12 education. A robust, accountable education system that prepares students for the realities of the workforce is a crucial

pillar for a thriving retail sector. By taking on our share of responsibility and pushing for educational accountability, we can help pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for our industry, our communities, and our state. 

Advancing Fair Competition in the Credit Card Industry for Small Businesses

By Mary Lau, President/CEO Retail Association of Nevada

NEVADANS ARE FEELING THE ECONOMIC pressures of inflation, rising interest rates, and supply chain disruptions. This is why the Credit Card Competition Act is critical federal legislation to protect consumers and small businesses from the rising cost of the credit card processing monopolies. In her submission, Assemblywoman Marzola missed a few facts about this legislation that are critical for our state.

Visa and Mastercard control 80% of the credit card market in the United States, which has created a stifling environment for retailers, especially small businesses. The constraints on competition, heightened by exorbitant transaction fees, have been detrimental to both businesses and consumers, pushing costs upwards while stifling market innovation.

Under the current system, transactions made on cards issued by Visa and Mastercard are processed exclusively over

their individual networks. The proposed Credit Card Competition Act aims to challenge this status quo by requiring that transactions from cards issued by the nation’s largest banks be processed over a minimum of two independent networks. This could include either Visa or Mastercard along with a competing credit card network or an independent network. By granting merchants the freedom to select the network for transaction processing, the proposed legislation would drive competition based on fees, security, and service quality. Federal Reserve data indicates that independent networks generally charge lower fees and register less fraud, which implies that the introduction of this legislation could yield both cost and security benefits.

The importance of the Credit Card Competition Act to small businesses cannot be overstated. For these entities, the burden of swipe fees, which average 2.24% per transaction for Visa and Mastercard, can be

crippling. As of 2022, these fees amounted to $93.2 billion, representing a nearly four-fold increase from the $25.6 billion charged in 2009. For small businesses, these fees often represent their second-highest operating cost, surpassed only by labor. This significantly impacts their bottom line and hinders their ability to compete, grow, and innovate. The potential annual savings is estimated at $11 billion by consultancy firm CMSPI and targets only banks with assets exceeding $100 billion, leaving local community banks and smaller credit unions unaffected. And we know merchants would share the savings with consumers

because they did when debit card swipe fees were brought under control a decade ago. Esteemed economist Robert Shapiro found 70% of savings were passed along, with Moody’s saying the money helped merchants shield consumers from price increases that otherwise would have occurred. In fact, consumer prices went up only half as much as wholesale prices for five full years.

The Credit Card Competition Act is a probusiness, pro-consumer legislation that fosters fair competition, reduces costs, and enhances transaction security. This legislation can provide a lifeline to small businesses and consumers and support the growth and vitality of our local economy. Before legislators opine on this issue, they should remember that Nevada is home to the small businesses that are held hostage by the out-of-state credit card processing monopolies. By bringing more competition into the industry, small businesses and Nevada consumers will feel the relief.

Mary Lau

Nevada’s GOP Grapples with Conspiracy Theory Challenges: Implications for Elections And Beyond

THE PREVALENCE OF CONSPIRACY THEORIES IN RIGHT-WING

politics is a growing issue, with politicians often dismissing wellestablished facts, and QAnon symbols becoming increasingly common at political rallies. The magnitude of this issue and its potential impact on the 2024 election are highlighted in recent data analysis conducted by the Retail Association of Nevada.

A comprehensive examination of likely Republican primary voters in Nevada reveals a startling trend. Approximately 59% of these voters believe in the QAnon conspiracy theory. 73% think the 2020 election was rigged, a belief that contradicts the consensus of multiple audits and court decisions. Nearly a third, 29%, express a broad mistrust in science, a cornerstone of evidencebased policy making. Lastly, an overwhelming 90% consider the January

RAN Staff Report

6th attack on the Capitol as insignificant, a perspective that deviates dramatically from the majority of American citizens and the legal system. These statistics indicate that a significant portion of GOP primary voters hold beliefs that are aligned with conspiracy theories and factual inaccuracy. This trend poses significant challenges for the democratic process. The high prevalence of these beliefs within the Republican primary electorate could result in candidates who endorse these conspiracy theories gaining traction and winning their primaries. This could lead to an increase in policymakers who diverge from established facts, impacting policy decisions and the functioning of government. Moreover, the presence of such widespread conspiratorial beliefs complicates debates

around key election issues like education and tax policy. If a significant portion of voters are basing their decisions on unfounded conspiracy theories rather than factbased issues, how can we foster meaningful

discussion and make informed choices?

For Democrats, the challenge is equally formidable. A voting base that cannot agree on basic facts inhibits the ability to establish a common ground for policy discussions. This agreement is essential for bipartisan cooperation, fruitful policy debates, and effective governance. It makes the task of reaching across the aisle and achieving consensus on major issues exceedingly difficult.

Political leaders in Nevada now face a

daunting task. They must decide how to navigate this landscape and appeal to these voters: do they endorse these unfounded beliefs, do they resort to pandering, or do they attempt to counter these beliefs with facts and reason? Each choice carries significant implications for the democratic process and the future of political discourse in Nevada and potentially, the country. The rise of conspiracy theories and the rejection of established facts is a growing concern in the political landscape. The influence these beliefs can have on our democracy is far-reaching and troubling. As we approach the 2024 election, these challenges will undoubtedly continue to be a significant factor in the political dialogue, candidate selection, and ultimately, the direction our country takes. It is a testament to the urgent need for promoting critical thinking, media literacy, and factbased discourse in our political conversations. 

“The rise of conspiracy theories and the rejection of established facts is a growing concern in the political landscape.”

LOMBARDO SIGNS OAKLAND A’S STADIUM BILL, CLEARING PATH FOR TEAM’S MOVE TO LAS VEGAS

Governor Joe Lombardo has signed SB1, also known as the Oakland A’s stadium bill, after extensive public and legislative deliberations in Nevada. The signing marks a significant step towards bringing the A’s baseball team to Las Vegas. The legislation, which reflects months of negotiations between the team, state officials, county representatives, and the league, paves the way for the team’s relocation. With $380 million in public funds allocated for a new ballpark at the Tropicana Las Vegas site, the A’s will now proceed with the process of applying for relocation with Major League Baseball. The move is expected to contribute to the city’s growing sports landscape and bring various benefits to the community.

KTNV Las Vegas

GOVERNOR SETS NEW RECORD WITH 75 VETOES

Republican Governor Joe Lombardo set a new record by vetoing 75 bills in a single legislative session, taking a strong stand against

Nevada News

the Democrat-controlled Legislature’s policies. He vetoed a variety of bills, including those focused on tenant protections, funding for free meals in K-12 schools, collective bargaining rights for higher education employees, and state-funded healthcare for pregnant individuals ineligible for Medicaid due to immigration status. Lombardo stated these bills would have raised taxes, violated constitutional rights, and unnecessarily expanded bureaucracy, and he described his vetoes as a way to protect Nevadans from harmful legislation. His 75 vetoes surpass previous single-session veto records and place him second only to Brian Sandoval, who vetoed 97 bills during his eight-year term.

Nevada Independent

KEY LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES APPROVED BY NEVADA LEGISLATURE

In a legislative session marked by record-setting vetoes by Governor Joe Lombardo, significant legislation was passed, including the largest K-12 education budget in the state’s history and a deal to relocate the Oakland Athletics to Las Vegas. Over 530 bills were signed into

law, marking achievements for both Democratic lawmakers and Lombardo, despite the governor’s veto of 75 bills. Major policies passed included an education proposal and bills concerning a state chief innovation officer, crime-related legislation, school safety measures, a substantial spending plan for K-12 schools, protections for out-ofstate abortion patients, gender dysphoria and incongruence health coverage, a homelessness assistance program, and regulations related to fentanyl trafficking charges.

Las Vegas Review-Journal

NEW GROCERY STORE AND FOOD PANTRY ALLEVIATES FOOD INSECURITY IN NORTHEAST LAS VEGAS

The After Market, a new grocery store and food pantry, has opened in northeast Las Vegas, bringing much-needed relief to a community that has been without a nearby supermarket since 2016. Operated by the Foundation Christian Center, the hybrid supermarket aims to serve nearly 10,000 people who have been traveling several miles to access groceries. The store not only provides

essential food items but also features a food pantry and a cooking component to cater to the needs of the neighborhood. With support from Clark County, The After Market aims to address the pervasive issue of food insecurity and become a staple in Las Vegas.

KTNV Las Vegas

NEVADA SENATOR SEEKS APPROVAL FOR VEGAS-AREA WATER PIPELINE THROUGH CONSERVATION AREA

Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has introduced legislation urging Congress to authorize the construction of a second pipeline beneath Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. The proposed pipeline aims to deliver Colorado River water to suburban Las Vegas, enhancing the region’s water system capacity without increasing its draw from the drought-affected Lake Mead reservoir. The $2.5 billion project, funded by Southern Nevada water users, is expected to begin construction in about two years and aims to ensure water service reliability and provide a backup to the existing pipeline. Cortez Masto’s request seeks congressional

WALGREENS PARTNERS WITH FREENOME TO PROMOTE DIVERSITY IN CANCER RESEARCH

Walgreens has entered into a multiyear partnership with Freenome to advance clinical studies of blood-based tests for early cancer detection. Utilizing its national presence and patient insights, Walgreens will support Freenome’s research program by engaging diverse patient populations and improving health outcomes. Through collaboration with technology provider Curebase, Walgreens will recruit patients from various backgrounds for Freenome’s Sanderson Study, leveraging targeted outreach and in-person consultations at pharmacies. The partnership aims to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in clinical trials, aligning with national goals to detect cancer early and reduce disparities. Additionally, Walgreens and Freenome will collaborate on risk-prediction models and population health software to address existing care gaps and

improve cancer detection testing.

Chain Drug Review

DECLINE IN GROCERY INFLATION PERSISTS IN MAY

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of food-at-home price inflation in May dropped to 5.8% annually, down from 7.1% in the previous month. The Consumer Price Index data revealed a slight 0.1% increase in food-athome prices compared to April, reversing the decline observed in the previous month. Overall inflation also experienced a significant decrease to a 4.0% annual pace in May, marking the lowest yearly rate for the CPI in over two years.

Grocery Dive THE CHALLENGES AND LIMITATIONS OF FASTER DELIVERIES

The speed of deliveries has increased, but further advancements may be limited by shifting consumer preferences and cost considerations. According to Project44, the average time between order placement and delivery dropped to four days in April. Increased carrier capacity,

diversified carrier mix, and fulfillment strategies have contributed to faster deliveries. However, challenges such as cost constraints, decreased demand for express deliveries, and the need for accurate forecasting may impede further acceleration. Retailers must strike a balance between cost mitigation and meeting consumer expectations to improve delivery offerings. The future of faster deliveries faces limitations due to these factors.

Retail Dive RETAILERS ANTICIPATE DISCOUNT-FOCUSED HOLIDAY SEASON

A CNBC Supply Chain Survey reveals that retailers are preparing for a holiday season characterized by consumer concerns and strong demand for discounts. Despite a significant drop in inflation compared to the previous year, most respondents expressed worries about reduced holiday spending. Twothirds of the surveyed retailers anticipate that consumers will prioritize discounted offers during the peak retail season.

Early holiday order activity is centered around middle price-point items like jackets, with highend items accounting for less than 20% of orders. Additionally, more than half of the orders are expected to involve promotional products, including gifts with purchase. CNBC

WALMART TO EXPAND SPECIALTY HIV OUTREACH PROGRAM

Walmart is set to broaden its specialty HIV outreach initiative by extending the program to nearly twelve states this year. The retailer has trained its pharmacists on specialty HIV treatments in communities heavily impacted by the virus. The program collaborates with local clinics and community groups to enhance patient engagement in testing and gaining treatment access. Similar efforts have been undertaken by CVS and Walgreens, partnering with a federal government initiative aimed at reducing the HIV epidemic by 2030.

CNBC

Understanding Nevada’s AB175: A Newer Chapter in Educational Governance RAN Staff Report

NEVADA’S EDUCATIONAL

SECTOR

RECENTLY witnessed the passage of Assembly Bill 175 (AB175), set to introduce significant changes to the governance structure of school districts in counties accommodating more than 75,000 students. This transformative legislation directly impacts the Clark County School District.

Under existing law, these school districts’ boards of trustees were populated by elected members hailing from seven distinct election districts. These districts were formulated with an emphasis on population equality and territorial contiguity. However, AB175 introduces a novel shift in the composition of these boards, adding four nonvoting members to the mix. One of these members will be appointed by the board of county commissioners while the remaining three will be appointed by the governing bodies of the three most populous cities in the county. Although these newly introduced

nonvoting members lack the authority to vote for or serve as board officers, they will bear the same rights and responsibilities as the existing voting members.

This bill was jointly sponsored by Republican

with implementation.

Trustee Board President Evelyn Garcia Morales made it clear that before moving forward with the legislation, the board wants more research to fully understand their options to ensure that no

Assemblyman Toby Yurek and Democratic Assemblywoman Shannon Bilbray-Axelrod. AB175 successfully navigated its way through both houses of the Nevada Legislature with bi-partisan support, garnering a 29 to 11 vote in the Assembly and a 16 to 4 vote in the Senate.

With the bill signed by Governor Lombardo, the Clark County Board of Trustees recently voted to delay moving forward

unintentional harm befalls the students they are responsible for.

The Retail Association of Nevada maintained a neutral position during the legislative process. RAN flagged this bill for monitoring due to the bill’s potential impacts on education in the state, and by extension, the readiness of the future retail workforce. RAN is a strong advocate for legislation that increases

accountability in our government as well as creates innovative new approaches to preparing a well-educated workforce for the retail sector. While AB175 is now a part of Nevada’s legislative framework, its journey is far from over. Its successful passage indicates a shift in the governance structure of the state’s school districts. However, the actual implementation and practical impacts are yet to be fully determined. This is evidenced by the Clark County Board of Trustees’ unanimous decision to delay the enforcement of AB175. As the landscape continues to evolve, stakeholders such as RAN will closely monitor the legislation’s progression, its implementation, and any subsequent changes in future legislative sessions. The ultimate goal remains the promotion of quality education that effectively prepares the future workforce for the challenges and opportunities within the retail sector.

Independence Day Sales Projected to Reach $202 Million in Nevada

Nationwide Spending Expected to Reach $9.5 Billion

SUMMERTIME IS OFFICIALLY HERE, AND THERE’S NO better way to kick it off than Independence Day. Retailers across the Silver State are stocking their shelves with all the cookout favorites and patriotic decorations in preparation for the summer’s biggest

party. According to the Retail Association of Nevada (RAN), Nevada consumers are projected to spend $202.8 million on food, beverages and America-centric items for outdoor BBQs and other celebrations this weekend.

A recent survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF) indicates that 87.0 percent of Americans will

celebrate Independence Day, spending an average of $93.34 to generate $9.5 billion in total spending nationwide.

As reported by the NRF, the most popular way to celebrate Independence Day this year will be a picnic/BBQ, with 65.0 percent of respondents indicating plans to do so. Other popular celebration

plans include fireworks or community celebrations (42.0 percent), travel or vacation (14.0 percent) and attending a parade (13.0 percent). Additionally, 32.0 percent of all survey respondents indicated they would purchase a patriotic item this year.

Average Spending on Independence Day

Important Information for SIG Members

NRS requires all existing members of a self-insured group to be notified of all new members. NRNSIG new members are listed below.

NRNSIG members who wish to register a negative vote on a new group member, please write NRNSIG at 575 S. Saliman Road, Carson City, NV 89701, indicating which member and the reason(s) for the negative vote

JULY 4TH — INDEPENDENCE DAY

The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day or July 4th—has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution. On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.

“Workers’

Nevada News

approval and expansion of the conservation area’s boundaries by approximately 16%. US News

FEDERAL PROCESS BEGINS TO REVAMP COLORADO RIVER WATER USE RULES BY 2027

The U.S. Interior Department has initiated a public process to reshape the distribution of Colorado River water, aiming to update and implement new rules by 2027. The department plans to replace expiring guidelines and agreements established

Continued from page 6

in 2007, which address water sharing during times of drought and climate change, as well as operating plans for Lake Powell and Lake Mead reservoirs. The public process will involve virtual meetings and opportunities for public comments to gather input on operational guidelines and strategies. With the Colorado River serving as a vital water and power source for millions of people in the Western U.S. and Mexico, the outcome of this process will guide federal management of the river’s dams across the region. US News

National News

MAY RETAIL SALES UP, JUNE OUTLOOK POSITIVE

May retail sales show modest growth, with a 0.3% increase compared to April and a 1.6% increase year-overyear, indicating steady consumer spending despite economic concerns. Digital sales rose by 6.5%, reflecting the popularity of online shopping. Consumers have favored value chains, discount stores, and groceries, while restaurants and bars experienced an 8%

Continued from page 7

increase. Although grocery prices have risen, there was a slight decrease in prices for May. Spending on credit and debit cards remained strong. The upcoming June weekend, combining Father’s Day and Juneteenth, is expected to boost consumer spending, and the summer travel season is predicted to further drive economic growth, supported by lower gas prices and eased travel restrictions.

NEVADA CCB GRANTS CONDITIONAL LICENSES FOR CANNABIS CONSUMPTION LOUNGES

The Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB) has approved the first conditional licenses for cannabis consumption lounges, marking a significant step in the state’s cannabis industry. The three entities granted conditional licenses are MM Development Company dba Planet 13 in unincorporated Clark County, The Venue at Sol Cannabis in Washoe County, and Cheyenne

TIKTOK’S POPULARITY AMONG GEN-Z SHOPPERS FACES A HURDLE IN U.S. E-COMMERCE

TikTok has emerged as a dominant force among Gen Z consumers, influencing their shopping decisions alongside platforms like Instagram and YouTube, according to a survey by the ICSC. However, despite its influence, TikTok’s e-commerce efforts have not gained significant traction in the US, unlike its success in Southeast Asia with

Medical Sammy Davis dba Thrive Cannabis Marketplace in unincorporated Clark County. These licenses were issued after a random number selection event in November, and applicants must undergo suitability investigations by CCB Board Agents to receive their final licenses. The CCB has also adopted regulations to provide greater flexibility in air ventilation requirements, aiming to reduce entry barriers for all potential licensees, including social equity applicants. My News 4

livestream shopping. Livestream shopping has yet to take hold in the US market, even though major social platforms have attempted to popularize it. TikTok executives believe livestream shopping will become dominant over time, but there is limited evidence of a shift in user behavior so far. To fully capitalize on its influence, TikTok may need to reevaluate its approach to e-commerce in the US.

Business Insider

Mary F. Lau President/CEO

Bryan Wachter Senior Vice President

Elizabeth MacMenamin Vice President of Government Affairs

Piper Brown Vice President, Finance and Administration

Megan Bedera Editor

Sue Arzillo, Alphabet Soup Inc. Newsletter Design & Layout

Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2023

RAN Staff Report

RETAILERS

ARE CALLING ON CONGRESS

to take action on the “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2023” that was introduced earlier this year by Senators Grassley and Cortez Masto. The main purpose of the bill is to combat organized crime involving the illegal acquisition of retail goods and subsequent selling of

these goods through physical and online retail marketplaces.

The proposed bill highlights the significant impact of organized retail crime, both economically and socially. According to the findings, organized retail crime is costing retailers around $720,000 for every $1 billion in sales, representing a 50% increase in losses since 2015. Additionally, the bill underscores

the increasing use of violence or aggression in these crimes and their potential to fund transnational criminal organizations.

To counter this, the Act proposes several amendments to the United States Code, primarily strengthening the legal tools law enforcement has to combat these types of crimes. The bill also calls for the creation of an Organized Retail Crime

Coordination Center under the Secretary of Homeland Security, tasked with coordinating federal law enforcement activities related to organized retail crime. This would include establishing relationships with state and local law enforcement agencies, assisting them in their investigations, and tracking trends in organized retail crime 

Nevada News is published by the Retail Association of Nevada, a nonpartisan, nonprofit corporation founded in 1969 representing the Retail Community, the Chain Drug Council and the Grocery Industry Council.