25 States Challenge Trump Administration’s New Tariffs in Federal Court

Twenty-five states sued the Trump administration on August 3, challenging new tariffs imposed under a trade measure tied to forced-labor concerns. The states argue that the action unlawfully attempts to replace import taxes previously struck down by the Supreme Court and exceeds the administration’s statutory authority.

The challenged policy imposes duties of 10% or 12.5% on goods from 60 trading partners, according to the lawsuit’s reported details and materials from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The states contend that the administration improperly used the tariff mechanism. The Supreme Court’s earlier ruling did not resolve the legality of these newer tariffs.

The case could help determine whether the administration may continue collecting the challenged duties and clarify the limits of presidential trade authority. Two separate lawsuits filed by small businesses in July also challenged the same or related tariff action.

The lawsuit remained pending as of August 8. No final ruling or preliminary-injunction decision had been identified, and the government’s complete response and any court-ordered briefing schedule were not established in the available results. Further court proceedings are expected, but the packet does not identify a hearing date or other specific next deadline.