Illegal fireworks trafficking added to federal money laundering law
In committeeH.R. 9013Latest action
Sponsor: Ed Case · Representative · HI
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Fireworks Trafficking and Money Laundering Prevention Act
119th Congress
Topics: Crime & justice
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 9013 lets prosecutors charge illegal interstate fireworks traffickers with money laundering, raising the max penalty from 1 to 20 years.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 9013 adds illegal interstate fireworks trafficking to the list of crimes that qualify as "specified unlawful activity" under federal money laundering laws. This allows prosecutors to pursue money laundering charges against people who profit from moving illegal fireworks across state lines. The bill does not change which fireworks are legal or illegal and does not affect consumers who legally buy fireworks.
Who does it affect?
The bill most directly affects people involved in organized illegal fireworks distribution, particularly those transporting large quantities across state lines for profit. It also affects federal prosecutors and law enforcement agencies, who would gain tools to freeze assets and pursue more serious charges.
Why does it matter?
Under current law, illegal interstate fireworks smuggling carries a maximum penalty of only one year in prison, limiting prosecutors to a relatively minor charge. Adding it to money laundering statutes raises the potential sentence to up to 20 years and allows investigators to follow the money in illegal fireworks operations.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 22, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · May 22, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
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: — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.