NAMM Supports Goals of Lacey Act with RELIEF for Musical Instruments Created Prior to 2008 Amendment and Innocent Owner Protection

The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) applauds the House Natural Resources Committee’s approval of H.R. 3210, known as the RELIEF Act. The bipartisan bill provides an exception for instruments created before the 2008 Lacey Act amendments and offers protection for owners of musical instruments who exercise due care in their acquisition. The bill now goes to an expected mid-July discussion and eventual vote by the entire House of Representatives.

A 25 to 19 vote in the House Natural Resources Committee approved initial passage of the act. H.R. 3210 represents a solution to unintended consequences of the 2008 amendments made to the Lacey Act, while maintaining the Lacey Act’s overall important goals to protect forests and wildlife around the world.

“NAMM Members stand united with all who support the Lacey Act’s goal of protecting our precious natural resources,” said Joe Lamond, president and CEO of NAMM. “We believe the RELIEF Act addresses the unintended consequences of the law that affect instrument makers and owners. These new measures ensure a right of due process for innocent instrument owners and provide clarity to importers on the foreign laws they are expected to comply with."