Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act

Public Health Protection: The Secretary of Health and Human Services can order the destruction of articles that present a significant public health concern (Section 2(a)(1)). This prevents potentially harmful items from remaining in the commerce stream.

Due Process Protections: The Secretary is required to provide appropriate due process, which includes notice and the opportunity to appear and introduce testimony (Section 2(a)(3)). This ensures owners have a chance to respond to the destruction order.

Financial Burden on Owners: The owner or consignee of a refused article is responsible for all costs associated with the destruction of the article (Section 2(a)(2)).

Loss of Export Options: When an article is deemed a significant public health concern, the Secretary can order its destruction without giving the owner the opportunity to export it (Section 2(a)(1)).

Strict Destruction Deadlines: Owners or consignees are required to destroy the article no later than 90 days after the issuance of a destruction order (Section 2(a)(2)).

New Prohibited Acts: It becomes a prohibited act to move, introduce, or deliver for introduction into interstate commerce (including export) any article that is subject to an order for destruction (Section 2(b)).