Stop Comstock Act

This bill updates several old federal laws about “obscene materials.” It edits parts of the criminal code and a customs law to change how the government treats the mailing, shipping, and importing of materials labeled as obscene. The text makes targeted wording changes in three sections of title 18 and in section 305(a) of the Tariff Act of 1930, including updating language and cross-references in those laws. The bill is titled the Stop Comstock Act, signaling a focus on revising century‑old “Comstock” restrictions.

Key points

• Who is affected: People and businesses that mail, ship, or import materials the government may call “obscene,” as well as agencies that enforce these rules.
• What changes: Edits to 18 U.S.C. §§ 552, 1461, and 1462 adjust the wording of the federal obscenity and shipping provisions; section 305(a) of the Tariff Act (19 U.S.C. 1305(a)) is also revised to update its language and limits. Some outdated or broad phrases are struck, and certain terms and references are modernized.
• When: The provided text does not state an effective date; changes would apply if and when enacted into law.