bigMoJo
Member
Just want to comment on these points...They've barely begun implementing new controls on packs, de minimus reform legislation is still pending, the hundreds of millions allocated to increase customs inspections haven't even begin to flow, but it will.
1. Pending de minimus reform legislation:
No, that is not accurate. Any "pending" legislation from a previous congress "dies" with a new congress. The 118th Congress, from 2023-2024 is "dead"... and the "pending" legislation with it, including eliminating de minimis. It would need to be re-introduced during the current 119th Congress. As of March 4, 2025, congress-woman Linda T. Sánchez plans to introduce de minimis legislation. But, that would need to go through sub-committees and the entire process all over again. She's a Democrat... you think Donny T is going to sign her bill... if it ever makes it to him?
2. Although the ACE system—requiring more information from shippers—may be implemented, the "hundreds of millions allocated to increase customs inspections" are not. DOGE has placed everything on the chopping block, including USPS, CBP, Homeland Security, and many more. Additionally, the hundreds of millions are going to be spared for the long-awaited additional tax cuts that billionaires like myself so desperately need. I doubt there will be an additional dime spent on inspections, but we'll likely see more terminations.
Packs that may have currently had difficulty getting through, did not because all agencies have been on "high alert." The Administration has come in and put just about every government employee on "notice." In that type of climate, everyone is going to work harder to keep their jobs. This "climate" can only last so long. And, with all the problems looming over the administration's policies, the fear and "high alert" will fizzle... if it hasn't already.
By the way, tariffs may be within the Executive's purview to implement, but it would take legislation by congress to eliminate de minimus. The only legislation congress is debating today... because of his brilliant economic policies, how to deprive the President of precisely that power.
