Lower Bucks Today

Dec. 15, 2023 - The Senate’s version of legislation sponsored by Reps. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) and KC Tomlinson (R-Bucks) has passed the General Assembly and was signed by the governor. The legislation, Senate Bill 527, now Act 41 of 2023, aims to address the growing concern of package theft, commonly known as porch piracy.

According to Rep. Kristin Marcell, "One-third of Americans who shop online have had a package stolen. Here in the Commonwealth, package theft has impacted almost 2 million Pennsylvanians. When you consider the median value of stolen packages are 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."

The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Frank Farry, is the companion to Marcell and Tomlinson's House Bill 696. It seeks to increase penalties for mail theft and create specific penalties for theft of mail, including packages, bags, or letters. Currently, theft of mail is charged under other theft offenses based solely on the value of the item taken.

By establishing specific penalties for theft of mail, the legislation aims to serve as a deterrent to porch pirates. "Increasing penalties for mail theft will serve as a deterrent the way the current law does not," said Rep. KC Tomlinson. "That will reduce the occurrence of these crimes and will lead to a safer and more secure community."

The grading of the offense would also increase if the person had prior convictions for theft of mail. These measures are designed to address the concerns and protect the interests of the residents of Pennsylvania.

Porch piracy has become a prevalent issue across the country, as more and more people rely on online shopping. The convenience of having packages delivered to your doorstep comes with the risk of theft. The impact of this crime goes beyond the financial loss, as it also causes emotional distress and a sense of violation.

With the signing of this legislation, Pennsylvania takes a step forward in combatting porch piracy and ensuring the safety and security of its residents. The introduction of specific penalties for theft of mail, including packages, serves as a strong deterrent and emphasizes the seriousness of this crime.

Representative Kristin Marcell and Senator Frank Farry, along with their colleagues, have worked diligently to address this issue and protect the interests of the community. Their efforts reflect a commitment to creating a safer environment for all residents of Pennsylvania.

As online shopping continues to grow in popularity, it is crucial for lawmakers to adapt and implement measures that address the challenges arising from this trend. The passage of Senate Bill 527 is a significant step in the right direction, and it sends a clear message that porch piracy will not be tolerated in Pennsylvania.

Package theft has affected millions of Pennsylvanians, and the financial and emotional toll it takes cannot be ignored. By increasing penalties and establishing specific penalties for theft of mail, the state is taking a proactive approach to deter porch pirates and protect the well-being of its residents.

With the signing of this legislation, Pennsylvania joins other states in recognizing the seriousness of porch piracy and taking action to combat it. The efforts of lawmakers and the support of the governor demonstrate a commitment to the safety and security of the community.

In a world where online shopping has become a way of life, it is essential to have laws in place that address the unique challenges associated with it. The passage of this legislation is a testament to the dedication of lawmakers to protect the interests of their constituents.

Porch piracy is a crime that affects not only individuals but also businesses. By implementing stricter penalties and creating specific offenses for theft of mail, Pennsylvania is sending a message that this crime will not go unpunished.

The signing of Senate Bill 527 into law is a significant victory in the fight against porch piracy. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of lawmakers who have listened to the concerns of their constituents and taken action to address them.

The residents of Pennsylvania can now feel more secure in their online shopping knowing that porch pirates will face harsher penalties and that the state is committed to protecting their interests. The signing of this legislation marks a turning point in the battle against porch piracy and sets a standard for other states to follow.

Package theft is a crime that affects communities across the nation, and it is heartening to see Pennsylvania taking a proactive stance to address it. With the implementation of stricter penalties and specific offenses for theft of mail, the state is sending a clear message that porch piracy will not be tolerated.

The signing of Senate Bill 527 is a significant step forward in the fight against porch piracy. It is a testament to the determination of lawmakers and their commitment to creating a safer and more secure community for all Pennsylvanians.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.repmarcell.com/News/33304/Latest-News/Governor-Signs-Porch-Pirate-Legislation--