To amend the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to provide for a ten-year statute of limitations for export control violations.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Mackenzie, Ryan [R-PA-7]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 22, 2026
Bottom line
The bill doubles the time federal authorities have to pursue legal action against individuals and entities violating U.S. export control laws, aiming to enhance enforcement capabilities against complex illicit trade.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to extend the statute of limitations for both civil and criminal violations of export control laws from the current general federal standard of five years to ten years. This means federal authorities would have a decade from the date of a violation to initiate civil enforcement actions or file indictments for criminal offenses.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the current 5-year statute of limitations is often insufficient for complex export control investigations, which frequently involve international elements, sophisticated evasion tactics, and lengthy evidence gathering. They contend that a 10-year period would provide law enforcement with necessary time to build strong cases, deter illicit activities, and protect national security interests by ensuring perpetrators cannot simply outwait justice.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that extending the statute of limitations could lead to prolonged uncertainty for businesses and individuals, potentially hindering legitimate trade by creating an overly aggressive enforcement environment. They may also contend that a 5-year period is generally sufficient for most federal offenses and that an extended period could lead to the prosecution of minor, long-past infractions or strain agency resources.
The bill text is extremely short and can be read quickly, making it accessible for immediate understanding of its core purpose.
Section 1
Ten-Year Statute of Limitations for Export Control Violations
This section amends Section 1760 of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to establish a 10-year statute of limitations for export control violations. For civil fines, penalties, or forfeitures, an action must be commenced within 10 years after the violation date, with the issuance of a charging letter counting as commencement. For criminal offenses, an indictment must be found or an information instituted within 10 years after the latest date of the violation.
Supporters argue
Supporters contend that extending the statute of limitations is crucial for effective enforcement against sophisticated export control evasion schemes, especially those involving foreign adversaries or complex global supply chains. They argue it ensures that perpetrators cannot simply outwait justice, thereby strengthening national security and preventing the proliferation of sensitive technologies.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that a 10-year period is excessively long and could create undue burdens and uncertainty for legitimate exporters. They may also suggest it could lead to overreach by enforcement agencies or the prosecution of minor, long-past infractions, potentially chilling legitimate trade.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the government's need for sufficient time to investigate and prosecute complex export control violations against concerns about prolonged legal exposure and potential burdens on businesses, even those operating legitimately.