1. United States
  2. Calif.
  3. Letter

Reinstate the de minimus exemption

To: Rep. Liccardo, Sen. Padilla, Sen. Schiff

From: A constituent in San Jose, CA

February 22

I urge you to support reinstating the de minimis exemption for tariffs on low-value imports. The de minimis provision has long provided a practical and efficient framework for allowing low-value goods to enter the United States without burdensome tariffs and customs processing. Its removal has created unintended consequences for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and everyday consumers who rely on affordable access to specialized goods, replacement parts, educational materials, and niche products that are not readily available domestically. For small businesses in particular, the loss of the de minimis exemption increases costs, complicates supply chains, and imposes administrative burdens that disproportionately affect independent sellers and startups rather than large corporations. Many small operators lack the infrastructure to absorb these added expenses, forcing them to raise prices or reduce offerings. Consumers ultimately bear these costs. Reinstating the de minimis threshold would restore efficiency to customs processing, reduce unnecessary administrative overhead, and provide meaningful relief to households navigating inflationary pressures. At the same time, Congress can continue to address legitimate concerns related to trade enforcement and product safety through targeted measures that do not broadly penalize low-value shipments. I respectfully ask that you support legislative efforts to reinstate the de minimis exemption or otherwise reform current tariff policy to protect small businesses and consumers while maintaining strong trade enforcement standards.

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