Bill would force U.S. to rank foreign trade zones on anti-crime compliance
In committeeS. 1291Latest action
Sponsor: Bill Cassidy · Senator · LA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: CLEAN FTZ Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Security & foreign affairs
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S 1291 requires CBP to publicly list and rank all foreign free trade zones by anti-crime compliance within two years.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
S 1291 directs U.S. Customs and Border Protection to publish and annually update a public list of all foreign-operated free trade zones within two years of enactment. Every country with such a zone would then be ranked into one of four tiers based on how well the zone meets international anti-crime and trade standards. Countries in Tiers II, III, or IV could face U.S. sanctions, including asset freezes and entry bans on individuals or businesses found participating in illegal trade within those zones.
Who does it affect?
The bill directly affects foreign governments, businesses, and individuals operating in free trade zones. U.S. Customs and Border Protection would be responsible for creating and maintaining the list and ranking system.
Why does it matter?
Free trade zones operate with reduced customs oversight, making them vulnerable to trafficking of drugs, counterfeit goods, weapons, and people. Ranking countries and enabling sanctions creates pressure on governments to strengthen oversight of these zones or face consequences affecting their access to U.S. markets and financial systems.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 3, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Apr 3, 2025
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.