Customs Modernization Act (1993)
Congress passed the 'Mod Act' as part of the NAFTA implementing law. It introduced 'informed compliance' and 'reasonable care,' shifting the duty of getting entries right onto importers rather than Customs. Importers became legally responsible for correctly valuing and classifying their own goods.
Importers faced new recordkeeping rules and the threat of penalties for negligent errors.
It set the template for a self-policing import system that the 2026 order now extends further.
Both moves push compliance work and liability onto importers. The new order builds on the burden the Mod Act first created.
