ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Shoplifting is on the rise, which is why a local lawmaker wants to add a layer of protection for business owners.
On Tuesday, Republican state Rep. Bill Rehm’s bill went to the Consumer and Public Affairs Committee. Rehm said he supported House Bill 57 because shop owners he spoke to said they were hesitant to stop shoplifters for two reasons: They feared they would be armed, and they feared they would be prosecuted for detaining someone.
People may recall a video showing Guitar Center employees wrestling a pickpocket to the ground after trying to run out with a guitar.
“This is an example of a store owner needing protection,” Rehm said.
HB 57 would allow business owners and employees to use reasonable force to detain shoplifters and shield them from any lawsuits brought in these circumstances.
Rehm said retail crime had become a widespread problem and it was time for the legislature to tackle it.
“My constituents are very disturbed by the amount of shoplifting, I mean, if you look at Next Door, you see an example of shoplifting every other day, and citizens are angry that nothing is being done, said Rem.
Committee members argued that New Mexico’s law already protects business owners.
“We’ve secured the books, and I think this bill is duplicative and unnecessary,” said state Rep. Andrea Romero.
After some discussion, the bill was tabled and no further action will be taken on it.
Track HB 57 during the legislative session.
