The bill would increase civil penalties for customs fraud and grossly negligent violations. People found to have committed these violations could be barred from importing for five years for fraud or two years for gross negligence. Their affiliated persons could also face import bans. The bill would also exclude violators and affiliated persons from the importer of record program.
It would let certain U.S. manufacturers, wholesalers, unions, worker groups, and trade associations sue people whose customs violations injure their business or financial interests. A successful plaintiff could receive compensation, an additional penalty equal to three times the compensation, certain court-ordered relief, and reasonable legal fees. The United States could join these cases, and a court order could be nullified by the President under emergency powers specified in existing law.
Eligible businesses and worker or trade groups could bring a federal lawsuit if customs fraud or gross negligence injures their interests. Importers found responsible could face higher penalties, import bans, and loss of eligibility for the importer of record program. The bill does not create a private lawsuit for all members of the public.
The bill does not provide a federal spending estimate. It says successful plaintiffs may recover the costs of bringing a case, including reasonable attorney's fees.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.