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H.R. 5853119th CongressIn markupLatest action Apr 22, 2026Decoded by AI · checked against the record
Official title: To amend the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to increase the civil penalties that may be imposed under such Act.
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govThe plain-language version leads. The official text is always the reference.
HR 5853 raises max export control fines from $300,000 to $1.2 million per violation, applying only to future violations.
50-second read · 5 questions answered below
HR 5853 would increase the maximum fine for violating U.S. export control laws from $300,000 to $1.2 million per violation, or from twice to four times the value of the illegal transaction, whichever is greater. The higher penalties would apply only to violations occurring on or after the date the bill becomes law. Past violations would not be affected.
The bill directly affects businesses, manufacturers, researchers, and individuals who deal in goods or technology requiring a U.S. export license, including advanced electronics, software, weapons components, and certain industrial equipment. Companies involved in international trade, particularly in defense, technology, or manufacturing, face the most exposure.
The stated goal is to make penalties large enough to discourage illegal exports of controlled items. Raising the fine ceiling increases the financial risk for anyone who violates export control rules going forward.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it. Read the official bill on Congress.gov
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
Latest action: — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 44 - 0.