Closing the De Minimis Loophole Act
Sponsored By: Representative Sánchez, Linda T. [D-CA-38]
Introduced
Summary
Ends the federal de minimis import exemption. This bill would eliminate section 321(a)(2) de minimis treatment for many low‑value shipments, tighten entry data and penalties, and align postal and non‑postal rules.
Show full summary
- Importers and small sellers would lose duty‑free entry for many low‑value packages. Shipments from China would be covered immediately and shipments from other countries would be covered for entries or withdrawals on or after 120 days, with a narrow 3‑day exception for goods already in transit.
- Postal services and carriers would face new, consistent fees and procedures set by the Treasury after consultation with the Postmaster General so USPS and non‑USPS shipments follow the same rules.
- Customs would require more detailed entry data, including Harmonized Tariff Schedule numbers at the 10‑digit level where applicable, and issue regulations on penalties and liabilities to deter fraud. The Secretary must complete rulemaking within 120 days to implement these changes.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
New duties on small imports
This bill would end the de minimis rule for low-value imports. If passed, you or your seller could owe duties, fees, and extra handling on small international packages. Shipments from China would be affected on the date of enactment. Packages already loaded on a ship or in final transit in the 3 days before enactment would be excluded. For other countries, the new rules would start 120 days after enactment. Treasury would set new entry steps, data rules, and penalties within 120 days. Textile and apparel entries would need full 10-digit tariff codes.
New postal fees for small packages
Treasury, with the Postmaster General, would set fees and procedures for small international postal packages that used to be de minimis. They could add USPS handling fees and new steps to match other shipments. You or your sender may need to pay new postal fees or provide more info.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Sánchez, Linda T. [D-CA-38]
CA • D
Cosponsors
Espaillat
NY • D
Sponsored 6/5/2025
Rep. Suozzi, Thomas R. [D-NY-3]
NY • D
Sponsored 6/5/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov