More than just shoplifting.

• Position: TRENDS AND TRANSITIONS - Brief article

Gangs of professional shoplifters steal large amounts of merchandise and resell it, costing businesses as much as $30 billion annually, and costing states an estimated $1 billion in lost sales tax revenue. They typically target small household items, such as over-the-counter drugs, baby formula and batteries.

Theft gangs have become increasingly brazen and sophisticated, carrying tools to remove security tags and foil-lined bags to prevent store alarms from sounding. They may use weapons to take carts full of merchandise directly past security guards to a waiting getaway car or van. "Organized retail crime is more serious than simple everyday shoplifting and is a growing problem," says New Jersey Senator John Girgenti.

Alabama, Colorado, Louisiana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Vermont and Washington passed legislation to fight organized retail crime last session. The laws classify types of retail theft and...