H.R. 2018: Bodega Owner Defense Enhancement Grant Assistance Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Bodega Owner Defense Enhancement Grant Assistance Act of 2025, proposes amendments to the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. The main objective of the bill is to allow certain businesses, specifically those classified under a specific industrial code, to access federal grant funds for installing security measures. Here are the key components of the bill:

Grant Fund Usage Expansion

The bill seeks to modify the existing grants under the Byrne-JAG (Byrne Justice Assistance Grant) program by including the following provisions:

• Installation of Security Equipment: One of the additional uses for grant funds would be to cover expenses related to the installation of panic buttons and surveillance equipment in private businesses.

Eligibility Criteria

The bill specifies that private businesses eligible for this funding must be classified under the North American Industrial Classification Code (NAICS) 445131, which corresponds to grocery stores with limited selection, commonly referred to as bodegas.

Implications for Private Businesses

By enabling these businesses to secure funding, the bill aims to enhance the safety and security of bodegas, allowing them to install measures that could potentially deter crime and improve the safety of employees and customers alike.

Funding Source

This program would draw from the existing framework of Byrne-JAG grant funds, which are typically distributed to support local and state law enforcement agencies in reducing crime and enhancing community safety.

Overall Aim

The overall goal of the Bodega Act of 2025 is to provide additional resources to small grocery store owners to help them protect their businesses, thereby contributing to the broader effort in crime prevention and community safety.

Relevant Companies

• None found