Washington, D.C. – Representative Mike Garcia (CA-27) was recognized as a 2024 “Hero of Main Street” by the National Retail Federation (NRF) for his strong support of local retailers through legislative action and leadership. 

“I am honored to receive the 'Hero of Main Street' award from the National Retail Federation,” said Rep. Garcia. “Small businesses are critical to the economic vitality of our communities, driving job creation and providing essential goods and services. However, flawed policies like California’s Prop 47 have severely impacted the safety and viability of our retailers. By reducing penalties for serious crimes, Prop 47 has led to a surge in retail theft and organized crime, putting both our businesses and our communities at risk.”

The “Hero of Main Street” award, established by NRF in 2013, recognizes a bipartisan group of lawmakers who champion the retail industry’s priorities through key votes, bill sponsorship, and advocacy. Retail is the largest private-sector employer in the nation, directly supporting over 6 million jobs in California and contributing more than $738.8 billion to the state's economy.

“Since the implementation of Prop 47, California has seen an 80% increase in shoplifting reports, and our state now has the highest rate of violent crime in the nation. These disastrous policies create a low-risk, high-reward environment for criminals, making it difficult for retailers to operate safely. This is what happens when Sacramento prioritizes politics over common sense. To truly support our retailers and ensure community safety, we must revoke Prop 47 and Prop 57, fire DA Gascón, and end zero-dollar bail,” said Rep. Mike Garcia. 

NRF honored 265 members of the House and Senate as “Heroes of Main Street” during the 2024 Retail Advocates Summit, the retail industry’s premier advocacy event in Washington, D.C.