"DC Mayor Bowser's Tough-on-Crime Proposal Targets Retail Theft, Drug Dealing, and Police Reform"
The Bowser administration in Washington, D.C., has introduced the Addressing Crime Trends Now Act, a new crime and policing legislation aimed at curbing organized retail theft and open-air drug markets. The bill establishes new felony crimes for engaging in or directing organized retail theft, revives a "drug-free zone" policy, and reinstates a law making it illegal to wear a mask for criminal acts. Additionally, the legislation seeks to roll back certain provisions of the Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act, including amending the definition of neck restraints and loosening restrictions on vehicular pursuits. The changes are intended to address rising violent crime rates and improve the attractiveness of the police department for prospective officers.