Imagine waking up to find that your favorite online store has suddenly raised prices on everyday items. This is the reality for many Americans due to a recent national emergency declaration. H.J.Res.117 is a proposed resolution in Congress aiming to reverse this situation by ending the emergency and restoring previous trade rules.
What This Bill Does
H.J.Res.117 is a joint resolution that seeks to end a national emergency declared by the President on July 30, 2025. This emergency led to a 40% tariff on certain imports from Brazil and removed the "de minimis" rule, which allowed small packages under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. If passed, the resolution would reverse these changes.
The bill aims to bring back the de minimis exemption, meaning small packages could once again be imported without extra charges. This would help reduce costs for online shoppers and small businesses that rely on affordable imports. Additionally, the 40% tariff on Brazilian goods would be lifted, potentially lowering prices for various products.
By ending the emergency, H.J.Res.117 would also revert customs procedures to how they were before the emergency. This means fewer delays and less red tape for businesses and consumers dealing with international shipments.
Why It Matters
The changes brought by the national emergency have affected millions of Americans, especially those who shop online for affordable goods. Without the de minimis rule, prices have increased, making it harder for families to find budget-friendly options. Small businesses, particularly those that import goods, have faced unexpected costs and challenges fulfilling orders.
If H.J.Res.117 passes, it could provide relief to consumers by lowering prices and increasing the availability of goods. Small businesses would benefit from reduced shipping costs and fewer administrative hurdles, helping them stay competitive and viable.
Key Facts
- Cost/Budget Impact: Ending the de minimis exemption was projected to raise about $10 billion annually in new tariff revenue.
- Consumer Costs: The change increased consumer costs by an estimated $13 billion annually due to higher prices and compliance costs.
- Timeline for Implementation: The emergency order took effect on July 30, 2025, with tariffs and changes implemented by August 29–30, 2025.
- Number of People Affected: Over 1.3 billion small packages entered the U.S. under the de minimis rule in FY2024, affecting millions of consumers.
- Current Status: As of October 28, 2025, H.J.Res.117 is pending in Congress, with no final vote yet.
- Key Dates: Introduced on August 28, 2025; pending in Congress as of late October 2025.
- Historical Context: The de minimis threshold was raised from $200 to $800 in 2016 to support e-commerce growth.
Arguments in Support
- Restoring Affordable Online Shopping: Supporters argue that bringing back the de minimis exemption will lower costs for consumers and small businesses, making online shopping more affordable.
- Reducing Red Tape and Delays: The resolution would simplify customs procedures, reducing shipping delays and confusion for businesses and consumers.
- Protecting Small Businesses: Many small importers and online sellers have struggled with the sudden changes. Reversing the emergency would help them avoid unexpected costs.
- Preventing a Regressive Tax: The tariffs act as a regressive tax, disproportionately affecting lower-income consumers who rely on low-cost imported goods.
- Restoring International Trade Norms: Ending the emergency would align with trade agreements and improve U.S. credibility in global commerce.
Arguments in Opposition
- Combating Tariff Evasion and Smuggling: Opponents argue that the de minimis exemption was exploited to evade tariffs and import illicit goods, including drugs.
- Protecting U.S. Manufacturing and Jobs: Some believe that the exemption undermined U.S. jobs by allowing foreign sellers to undercut American businesses.
- Responding to Human Rights Concerns: The emergency was partly justified by actions of the Brazilian government, including alleged human rights abuses.
- Increasing Tariff Revenue: The tariffs are projected to raise significant revenue for the U.S. government, which could be used for public services.
- National Security: The emergency declaration frames the tariffs as necessary for protecting U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.