The American Wire Producers Association (AWPA) is continuing its advocacy for stronger enforcement of U.S. trade laws, recently supporting passage of H.R. 1869, the Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act (PAIL Act).

On August 31, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan legislation. The bill is designed to strengthen the Department of Justice’s ability to investigate and prosecute international trade crimes, including tariff evasion, illegal transshipment, forced-labor violations, and other efforts to circumvent U.S. trade laws.

AWPA has long supported stronger tools to combat trade fraud and duty evasion, which can put domestic manufacturers and workers at a competitive disadvantage. Ahead of the House vote, AWPA provided a statement of support to the office of Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), one of the bill’s leaders.

In its statement, AWPA said:

“The American Wire Producers Association (AWPA) commends the U.S. House of Representatives for passage of H.R. 1869, the Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act (PAIL Act). As foreign competitors continue to exploit our trade laws and undermine our companies and workers, we welcome additional federal efforts to identify trade fraud and hold bad actors accountable. AWPA is grateful for the leadership of Representatives Hinson and Krishnamoorthi in introducing and advancing the bill through the House and we look forward to its swift consideration by the Senate.”

Rep. Hinson’s office also highlighted AWPA among the manufacturers and industry organizations supporting the legislation following its House passage.

Strengthening trade enforcement remains an important AWPA policy priority. The association continues to support efforts that give federal agencies additional tools and resources to address customs fraud, transshipment, duty evasion, and other practices that undermine U.S. manufacturers.

Learn More:
Read AWPA’s Letter of Support
Read Rep. Hinson’s Press Release