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House approves bill giving FDA power to destroy hazardous imports
Summary
The House passed H.R. 2715 to authorize the Food and Drug Administration to require destruction of imported articles that present a significant public‑health concern, with the importer responsible for destruction costs; sponsors said the measure prevents port‑shopping of refused shipments.
The House on July 20 passed H.R. 2715, the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act, under suspension of the rules. Sponsors said the bill closes a gap that allowed rejected imports to be resubmitted via different ports, endangering public health and undermining U.S. producers.
Representative Higgins (LA) told the chamber H.R. 2715 ensures “dangerous and poisonous imports do not reach American consumers,” listing examples from contaminated seafood to illicit vape products. Representative Carter, a sponsor, said the bill authorizes the Food and Drug Administration to require an importer to destroy an FDA‑regulated product that was refused entry into the U.S. because it poses a significant public‑health concern and to require the importer to pay for the destruction.
Supporters argued the measure deters bad actors, prevents port‑shopping, and protects domestic industries. The House agreed under suspension of the rules; the chair announced the rules were suspended and the bill passed by voice vote. The motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
