SCOTUS Snapshot: Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections
The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in two consolidated cases brought by several small businesses and 12 states. These parties challenge President Trump’s authority to impose tariffs on goods imported into the United States.
Basis of the Tariffs
President Trump justified the tariffs by citing the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). According to the administration, the IEEPA authorizes the president to address unusual and extraordinary threats to national security, foreign policy, or the U.S. economy that partly originate outside the country.
The Act states that in a national emergency, the president may regulate the importation or exportation of property in which any foreign country has an interest.
Implications of the Case
This decision will impact every American consumer and business, as well as all foreign countries that trade with the United States. The Trump administration argues the tariffs are valid under IEEPA because the power to regulate importation includes the power to impose tariffs.
Opposition's Argument
The challengers counter that interpreting IEEPA to grant the president tariff authority conflicts with the major questions doctrine. This doctrine prevents the president from making significant economic decisions without explicit congressional approval.
Key Points
- Small businesses and multiple states are contesting the president’s tariff powers.
- IEEPA is cited as the legal foundation for the tariffs.
- The major questions doctrine is central to the challengers’ argument against executive authority.
- The ruling will have wide-reaching effects on U.S. consumers and international trade partners.
Author’s summary: The Supreme Court is evaluating whether President Trump has the legal authority under IEEPA to impose tariffs without Congress, a decision that could reshape U.S. trade and executive power boundaries.