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The Smuggling and Selling of HFCs May Lead to Prison Time, and a Hefty Fine

An HVAC Minute Video Update: January 14, 2025

Back in March of 2024, Michael Hart of San Diego was arrested for smuggling HFCs into the United States from Mexico. He then sold them. The AIM Act prohibits the importation of HFCs without allowances issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and this case marked the first prosecution in the United States to include charges related to the AIM Act. The AIM Act also prohibits selling, distributing, or offering for sale imported HFCs. In September of 2024, Hart plead guilty and admitted to conspiring to illegally import HFCs and sell them for a profit. Now, Hart is facing up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

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Hannah Belloli is editor-in-chief of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. She brings six years of experience as a trade journalist with BNP Media, including four years as an editor at The ACHR NEWS and two years with Walls & Ceilings. Hannah holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Wayne State University, where she also earned minors in English, journalism, and creative writing. As the daughter of a carpenter, she has long held an appreciation for the skilled trades and the professionals who drive the industry forward.