Today, Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15) is introducing the Bodega Owner Defense Enhancement Grant Assistance Act, also known as the BODEGA Act, in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to include an additional use of Byrne-JAG grant funds, which would cover the installation of panic buttons and surveillance equipment in private businesses to help combat violent crime.

On the introduction of the legislation, Rep. Torres said the following:

“Bodegas are the heart and soul of the Bronx and all of New York City, and the hard-working men and women who own and operate our bodegas are pillars of their communities. Unfortunately, bodega owners and employees often find themselves on the front lines of violent crime, jeopardizing their physical safety and their business’s ability to stay afloat. I’ve heard countless stories from across my district of bodega owners being physically attacked and lacking the resources to defend themselves, which is simply unacceptable.

“The BODEGA Act will open up federal funds for bodegas and similar small businesses to install additional security systems, such as panic buttons, and ensure faster response times from NYPD in dangerous high-stakes situations. This must not be a partisan issue — I urge all my colleagues in the House to get on board and help protect American small businesses from violent crime.”

In support of the legislation, Radhames Rodríguez, President of the United Bodegas of America (UBA), said the following:

“United Bodegas is very thankful that Rep. Ritchie Torres is introducing this bill so that bodegas can have access to funds which protect bodega businesses and our communities.”

The Bronx Economic Development Corporation (BXEDC) has also endorsed the legislation.

The full bill text can be viewed here.