Lower Bucks Today

HARRISBURG – Legislation aimed at combating porch pirating has been signed into law by the governor, following its sponsorship by Senator Frank Farry (R-6). The bill, known as Senate Bill 527 and now Act 41 of 2023, introduces specific penalties for the theft of mail, including packages, bags, and letters. Currently, in Pennsylvania, the theft of mail is charged under general theft offenses based solely on the value of the stolen item.

Senator Farry emphasized the importance of holding porch pirates accountable, particularly in light of the increasing popularity of online shopping. He stated, "With online shopping being a growing method of commerce, package thefts have been on the rise nationwide. It’s time to hold these thieves accountable." The bill focuses on repeat offenders, incorporating a grading system that would increase penalties for individuals with prior convictions for mail theft.

Statistics show that package theft has become a significant issue in the United States. According to Forbes, Americans have spent $1.7 trillion shopping online since 2020, and nearly eight in 10 Americans had a package stolen in 2022. In Pennsylvania alone, almost 2 million residents have been impacted by package theft. Representative Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) highlighted the financial toll and emotional distress caused by porch pirating, stating, "When you consider the median value of stolen packages, valued at $50, you can see this crime leaves a sizable financial toll on families and businesses, not to mention the emotional distress of having your personal property violated."

To address this issue, Representatives Kristin Marcell and KC Tomlinson have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives, known as House Bill 696. Representative Tomlinson expressed hope that the increasing penalties within this bill would serve as a deterrent, stating, "Our hope behind this legislation is that it will reduce the occurrence of these crimes and will lead to a safer community."

Pennsylvania now joins eight other states – Texas, New Jersey, Michigan, Oklahoma, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Arkansas – in making porch pirating a felony. By signing this bill into law, Pennsylvania aims to protect its residents and businesses from the growing threat of package theft.

For more information, please contact Nicole McGerry at 215-990-8949.

Click this link to access more information: https://senatorfarry.com/2023/12/14/farrys-bill-to-combat-porch-pirating-signed-into-law/