S.1185 - Fighting Illicit Goods, Helping Trustworthy Importers, and Netting Gains for America Act of 2025; FIGHTING for America Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Fighting Illicit Goods, Helping Trustworthy Importers, and Netting Gains for America Act of 2025" (FIGHTING for America Act of 2025) aims to amend Section 321 of the Tariff Act of 1930. The bill focuses on enhancing transparency and oversight of low-value shipments that are currently eligible for administrative exemptions from duties (de minimis exemption). The goal is to protect U.S. revenue, interdict illicit goods, and facilitate legitimate trade.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase scrutiny of low-value imports by requiring more detailed documentation and information. It also designates the smuggling of fentanyl and other illicit drugs via these shipments as a priority trade issue. The act introduces penalties for non-compliance and provides for summary forfeiture of certain merchandise.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Illicit Trade: Enhanced scrutiny can help curb the influx of illicit goods, including drugs like fentanyl.
- Increased Revenue: Closing loopholes in the de minimis exemption process could lead to increased tariff revenue for the U.S. government.
- Fairer Competition: By addressing unfair trade practices, the act aims to level the playing field for U.S. businesses and workers.
- Improved Border Security: Better information and documentation requirements will aid Customs and Border Protection in identifying and intercepting illegal shipments.
- Enhanced Intellectual Property Protection: Sharing information on suspected IP violations will help protect American innovation and brands.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs for Importers: The new documentation and fee requirements may increase costs for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Potential Delays: Enhanced scrutiny could lead to delays in processing shipments, affecting supply chains.
- Complexity: The new regulations may be complex and difficult for some businesses to navigate, requiring additional compliance efforts.
- Impact on Consumers: Increased costs for businesses could translate to higher prices for consumers.
- Administrative Burden: Increased reporting and enforcement could create additional administrative burdens for government agencies.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises. By enhancing transparency and oversight of imports, the act aims to ensure that duties are properly assessed and collected, supporting the financial stability of the nation. The focus on interdicting illicit goods also aligns with the government's responsibility to provide for the common defense and ensure domestic tranquility.
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).