H.R.914 - American Consumer Awareness of National Source Act; American CANS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 914, also known as the American Consumer Awareness of National Source Act or American CANS Act, aims to amend the Tariff Act of 1930. The amendment would require that country-of-origin labeling for agricultural products packaged in cans be displayed prominently on the front label or top of the can. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 4, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would change labeling requirements for canned agricultural products imported into the United States. Consumers would find it easier to identify the origin of these products. The change would apply to products imported 18 months after the enactment date.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency for consumers regarding the origin of canned agricultural products.
- Easier identification of products made in the USA, potentially boosting demand for domestic goods.
- May encourage companies to source agricultural products from the USA.
- Could lead to greater consumer confidence in the safety and quality of food products.
- Provides consumers with more information to make informed purchasing decisions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increased costs for can manufacturers and agricultural product packagers due to relabeling.
- Possible trade disputes with countries that feel unfairly targeted by the labeling requirements.
- Limited impact on overall consumer behavior, as some consumers may not prioritize country-of-origin labeling.
- Enforcement challenges to ensure accurate labeling and prevent fraudulent claims.
- The 18-month delay before implementation could reduce the bill's immediate impact.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. By setting labeling standards for imported goods, the bill aims to regulate international trade to provide more information to consumers. The requirement for country-of-origin labeling does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional right or freedom.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).