Strengthen Wood Products Supply Chain Act of 2025
Summary
The "Strengthen Wood Products Supply Chain Act of 2025" aims to streamline the process for detaining plants suspected of violating the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981. It sets time limits for the Secretary of the Interior to examine and make determinations on detained plants. The bill also outlines procedures for importers to contest detentions and transport plants under bond.
Expected Effects
This act will likely expedite the resolution of Lacey Act violation suspicions related to plant imports. It establishes clear timelines and procedures for both the government and importers. This should reduce uncertainty and potential delays in the wood products supply chain.
Potential Benefits
- Provides clarity and predictability for importers regarding the detention and examination of plants.
- Establishes time limits for the Secretary of the Interior to make final determinations, preventing indefinite delays.
- Allows importers to transport plants under bond for examination at a different location, potentially reducing storage costs.
- Offers a process for importers to protest detention decisions and seek court action.
- Could lead to a more efficient and less burdensome import process for wood products.
Potential Disadvantages
- The 5-day examination period may be insufficient for complex cases, potentially leading to rushed or inaccurate determinations.
- The act may increase administrative burdens on the Secretary of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- Could potentially weaken enforcement of the Lacey Act if the expedited timelines hinder thorough investigations.
- The costs associated with providing bonds for plant transport may be prohibitive for some importers.
- The act's focus on procedural requirements may overshadow the substantive goals of preventing illegal logging and trade in protected plants.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating international trade in plants and wood products. It also respects due process rights by providing importers with notice, an opportunity to be heard, and access to judicial review. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any other specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).