Jun. 21, 2023
HARRISBURG—Rep. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) praised the Senate for passing a companion bill to her legislation that would combat the growing crime of mail theft.
“This crime has impacted almost 2 million Pennsylvanians,” Marcell said. “When you consider the average cost of the package stolen is $4, you can see this crime leaves a sizable financial toll, not to mention the emotional distress of having your personal property violated.”
Theft of mail is currently charged under other theft offenses based solely on the value of the item taken. Senate Bill 527, sponsored by Sen. Frank Farry (R-Bucks) creates specific penalties for theft of mail, which includes a package, bag or letter. The grading of this offense would increase if the person had prior convictions for theft of mail.
Marcell’s legislation,
House Bill 696, mirrors
Senate Bill 527.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, home delivery of goods increased and continues to be a popular method of receiving consumer goods,” Marcell said. “Unfortunately, package theft continues to run rampant along with the popularity of these home delivery services.”
Senate Bill 527 now moves to the House for consideration.
Representative Kristin Marcell
178th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: David Foster
267-207-0207
dfoster@pahousegop.com
RepMarcell.com /
Facebook.com/RepMarcell