Supreme Court to decide if Trump's global tariffs are legal

September 9, 2025

The Supreme Court has agreed to expeditiously hear arguments in November regarding the legality of the Trump administration's global tariffs imposed through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Lower courts previously ruled that President Trump exceeded his authority by using this emergency law to impose tariffs ranging from 10% to 50% on numerous trading partners, including China, Mexico, and Canada. The case, initiated by small businesses and twelve states, represents a significant test of presidential authority and could potentially force the US to refund billions in collected tariffs.

Who is affected

Small businesses and companies that have paid the tariffs
Twelve states that joined the legal challenge
Trading partners including China, Mexico, Canada, the UK, and Japan
US consumers and businesses affected by the economic impact of the tariffs
The US government, which may have to refund billions in collected tariffs

What action is being taken

The Supreme Court is expediting the case with arguments scheduled for the first week of November
The Trump administration's tariffs remain in place while the litigation proceeds
Trump and India are "continuing negotiations" on trade
The Trump administration is defending its use of emergency powers to impose tariffs

Why it matters

This case represents the biggest test of Trump's presidential authority and signature economic policy
The outcome could determine whether presidents have authority to impose broad-based tariffs using IEEPA
Billions of dollars in collected tariffs might need to be refunded if the tariffs are found illegal
Existing and in-progress trade deals with countries including the UK and Japan could be disrupted
The case addresses the constitutional separation of powers, as lower courts ruled that taxing authority belongs to Congress

What's next

The Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case during the first week of November
The court will issue a ruling on whether the president's use of IEEPA for imposing tariffs is legal

Read full article from source: BBC