Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Refine your search by selecting a city.
Sanctions and export controls are areas of law that govern the transfer of goods, technology, software, and services across national borders. These laws are designed to protect national security, advance foreign policy objectives, and prevent the proliferation of sensitive goods and technologies. In Pennsylvania, as with the rest of the United States, businesses and individuals must follow a complex web of federal regulations regarding who they can do business with, what goods can be exported or imported, and what licenses or permits are necessary.
Although Pennsylvania does not create its own sanctions regimes or export control laws, entities within the state must comply with all applicable U.S. federal laws, including oversight by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and the Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). Failure to comply can result in serious civil and criminal penalties, business disruptions, and reputational harm.
Seeking legal counsel for sanctions and export controls is vital for various reasons. Common situations where legal help is needed include:
Given the high stakes involved and the complexity of these statues, strong legal guidance can help safeguard a business or individual from costly mistakes.
In Pennsylvania, the key aspects of sanctions and export controls law hinge on compliance with federal rules. Some important considerations include:
No additional state-level sanctions or export controls are imposed in Pennsylvania, but all persons and entities must remain vigilant to federal requirements and enforcement.
Sanctions are restrictions imposed by governments that limit trade or other activities with specified countries, entities, or individuals. Export controls regulate the movement of certain goods, technology, or information out of the country for security and foreign policy reasons.
Sanctions and export controls are enforced by federal agencies such as OFAC, BIS, and DDTC. Pennsylvania local law enforcement may assist in federal investigations, but the main oversight comes from these federal entities.
Depending on the nature of the goods, software, technology, or the destination country, Pennsylvania companies may need to obtain an export license before sending certain items abroad.
Violations can result in severe civil and criminal penalties, including fines, loss of export privileges, imprisonment, and reputational harm.
Yes. Universities are subject to export controls, especially regarding research involving controlled technology or foreign nationals.
Yes. Both individuals and entities can face enforcement action for noncompliance with sanctions or export controls.
Restricted parties are individuals, companies, or organizations identified by government lists as being restricted or prohibited from receiving U.S. goods, technology, or services.
Sometimes. U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with sanctioned parties, even when the transaction takes place abroad, and U.S.-origin goods remain subject to controls.
Businesses are responsible for screening transactions against government-maintained lists, such as the OFAC Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.
Consult a qualified attorney immediately. You may need to investigate further and consider a voluntary self-disclosure to mitigate penalties.
For people seeking more information or assistance, these resources may be helpful:
If you believe your business or personal activities may intersect with U.S. sanctions or export control laws, consider the following steps:
Legal counsel can provide tailored advice, represent you with authorities, and help ensure your operations are fully compliant. Prompt action can greatly reduce risks and protect your interests in this complex regulatory environment.
