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Rail, retail groups push Senate to pass cargo theft legislation

A broad coalition of more than 200 companies and industry organizations is urging Senate leadership to advance HR 2853, the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act. The bill cleared the House last month with overwhelming bipartisan support by a 348-60 vote.

The Association of American Railroads, BNSF Railway, American Trucking Associations, and Retail Industry Leaders Association are among signatories pressing for swift Senate action on the measure. The legislation would establish coordinated efforts between federal, state, local and railroad law enforcement to combat organized theft operations through joint investigations and enhanced private sector cooperation.

According to the coalition, organized supply-chain theft costs the trucking industry $18 million daily. Railroads reported more than $200 million in cargo theft losses during 2025. The bill targets sophisticated criminal networks exploiting cargo and resale channels while excluding routine retail theft and immigration enforcement measures.

The Senate Judiciary Committee currently holds the legislation.