NAMM Policy Priorities

August 10, 2026 NAMM Responds to Proposal to Add Brass-Wind Instruments to Section 232 Tariffs: Here's What Members Can Do On Aug. 6, the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) published a notice proposing to add brass-wind musical instruments and their parts and accessories (HTSUS 9205.10.0040 if valued under $10, and HTSUS 9205.10.0080 if valued over $10) to the list of derivative articles covered under Section 232 steel, aluminum and copper tariffs. If finalized, most of these products could face an additional 25%  tariff.  Review Federal Register Notice Why This Matters As NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak noted in NAMM's Aug. 6 statement, more than 25 million students participate in school music each year, supported by American retailers who supply affordable, entry-level instruments. That student pipeline feeds the professional musicians and manufacturers who anchor a creative economy contributing $1.17 trillion — 4.2% of GDP — and 5.4 million jobs. Musical instruments present no national security risk; this proposal would simply raise costs for schools, retailers and families. What NAMM Is Doing Formal comments to BIS: NAMM is preparin