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Sanctions and export controls are a set of federal rules that regulate what goods, software and technology can be exported or shared with certain countries, entities or individuals. These rules aim to protect national security, foreign policy and economic interests. For residents and businesses in Yakima, the impact is direct if you import, export, manufacture or distribute regulated items.
The framework relies on several core agencies, including the Department of the Treasury with its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Department of Commerce through the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and the State Department via the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) for ITAR controls. Violations can carry civil penalties, criminal penalties or both, depending on the nature of the conduct.
Yakima businesses should stay informed about which sanctions programs apply to their activities, and which export controls may limit or require licenses for transfers of technology. Regular updates from federal regulators mean compliance is an ongoing process rather than a one-time check.
OFAC operates under federal regulations that can restrict or prohibit dealings with sanctioned parties or countries. See OFAC guidance at the U.S. Treasury site for current programs.
The EAR administered by BIS controls dual-use and certain military items, requiring licenses for many exports and re-exports to restricted destinations.
Sanctions and export controls matters in Yakima can trigger serious legal exposure for individuals and businesses. A qualified attorney helps you interpret complex federal rules and implement practical compliance steps.
Scenario 1: Your Yakima company discovers a potential red flag with a supplier listed on OFAC sanctions. A lawyer can determine if shipments must be halted, how to screen future suppliers, and whether any licenses or mitigations apply.
Scenario 2: You plan an international sale involving restricted technologies. An attorney can assess whether the item falls under EAR or ITAR controls and help obtain the necessary licenses before moving forward.
Scenario 3: A customer outreach program in Yakima requires export licensing for communications software with encryption features. A lawyer can advise on license exceptions, classification, and documentation to avoid violations.
Scenario 4: Your business faces a potential OFAC or BIS enforcement action. A lawyer can guide you through internal investigations, self disclosures, and settlement options to minimize penalties and risk of criminal exposure.
Scenario 5: You are building a compliance program for employees in multiple states including Washington. An attorney can tailor policies, training, and audit steps that align with federal requirements and state business practices.
Sanctions & export controls are primarily federal, but Washington state and Yakima county businesses must align with federal obligations. Below are key federal regimes and how they interact with local practice.
1) International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and related authorities. These powers authorize a wide range of sanctions and controls used in many programs administered by OFAC and BIS. Location: 50 U.S.C. § 1701 et seq., with implementing regulations in 31 C.F.R. Part 500 et seq. These authorities underpin most federal sanctions actions that can affect Yakima exporters and importers.
2) Export Administration Regulations (EAR) administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security. These rules control dual-use items and certain military items; licensing is commonly required for exports and re-exports to restricted destinations. Treat 15 C.F.R. Parts 730-774 as the primary framework. Recent enforcement actions and license policy updates in 2021-2023 reflect ongoing adjustments to post-pandemic supply chains.
3) International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) administered by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. ITAR governs the export of defense articles and related technical data, with licensing, recordkeeping and compliance obligations for Yakima companies dealing with defense-related technology. See 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130 for ITAR terms.
4) Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations implement sanctions programs against targeted countries, entities and individuals. In practice, OFAC rules affect payments, shipments, and financial transactions conducted by Yakima businesses. See 31 C.F.R. Part 500 et seq. for general program structure and licensing guidance.
Recent trends show expanded sanctions programs and stricter license controls, particularly in relation to Russia and other geopolitical developments. For current program lists and changes, consult OFAC and BIS resources below.
OFAC and BIS regularly publish updates on program changes, new licenses, and enforcement actions. Staying current reduces the risk of inadvertent violations.
Sanctions restrict dealings with targeted countries, entities and individuals. Export controls regulate the transfer of controlled items and information across borders. Together they aim to protect national security and foreign policy objectives.
Identify if you export controlled items by classification, then consult OFAC, BIS and DDTC to determine licensing needs. A compliance review helps map obligations across all programs that apply to your operations.
EAR controls dual-use items and some military items under BIS. ITAR covers defense articles and related technical data under DDTC. EAR is broader for commercial products with dual-use potential; ITAR is defense-specific.
License processing times vary by program and complexity, from weeks to several months. Planning ahead is critical for shipments that require authorization.
Yes. A lawyer can conduct a gap analysis, help implement a compliance program and handle any dealings with regulators if enforcement occurs. Experience with federal enforcement is essential.
Penalties range from civil fines to criminal penalties, depending on intent and severity. For example, civil penalties can reach hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars per violation, plus potential disgorgement or injunctive relief.
Federal programs periodically expand through executive orders and agency rules. Notable updates occurred in 2021-2023 for Russia and other programs, with ongoing regulatory adjustments.
Use OFAC and BIS databases and license portals. OFAC maintains country lists, SDN listings, and program-specific guidance, while BIS provides commodity classifications and license data.
Some items may be exported or re-exported with an approved license. Each export requires careful classification, destination assessment and licensing according to the applicable regime.
Yes. Sanctions screening helps prevent transactions with sanctioned persons or entities. Integrate screening into onboarding, ongoing risk assessments and payment processes.
Yes. If you suspect a potential violation, consult counsel and consider voluntary disclosure if appropriate. Self-disclosure may influence penalties and remediation outcomes.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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