PENNSYLVANIA — In response to the recent surge of looting and violence in Philadelphia, House Republicans have launched a set of anti-looting laws aimed at bolstering penalties for looters, reinforcing juvenile curfews, combating social media-facilitated looting, and heightening penalties for those targeting state property.
House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) condemned the widespread looting and destruction in Philadelphia, saying it was “disastrous and disgusting.” He emphasized the need for safe communities for neighborhoods to flourish and applauded the House Republicans for their efforts to prevent future incidents through this legislative package.
The proposed laws address the role of social media in promoting violence and looting. Rep. K.C. Tomlinson (R-Bucks) plans to introduce legislation that would penalize those who use social media to incite criminal activities. This move comes in the wake of a Philadelphia-based social media influencer, known as “Meatball,” who reportedly played a role in encouraging the looting.
With a notable increase in looting over the past few years, particularly during otherwise peaceful protests, Rep. Martina White (R-Philadelphia) aims to introduce legislation that specifically criminalizes looting. According to White, making looting a specific criminal offense will equip law enforcement with more tools to handle such incidents and deter potential looters.
Additionally, recognizing the involvement of juveniles in many recent looting incidents, Rep. Tomlinson also plans to strengthen youth curfews. The proposed legislation would enable police to arrest and charge juveniles who deliberately violate lawful curfews with the intent to commit a crime.
In light of almost 20 liquor stores in Philadelphia being looted or shut down due to looting, Rep. Joe Hogan (R-Bucks) announced his intention to introduce legislation that would enhance penalties for those who loot state-owned property, including liquor stores. Hogan stressed the importance of protecting state property and employees from harm and chaos caused by looters.
Through these proposed laws, the Pennsylvania House Republicans aim to ensure public safety, protect property, and prevent future incidents of looting and violence.
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