PREVIEW

Rep. Stephen Horn (R-Long Beach) has scheduled a public hearing Thursday to field comments and concerns from the local import/export community on the pace of modernization at the U.S. Customs Service. Among issues to be discussed are how Customs can best implement plans to replace its aging computer system for clearing and assessing duty on foreign imports. Shippers contend the current system is too slow and inefficient and fear that major delays in inventory and product movement could result if it crashes. Congress and the Clinton administration are discussing ways to finance the $1.5-billion replacement system. The hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Port of Long Beach headquarters. For more information, call (562) 425-1336.