Court Halts Trump's Tariffs, Ruling Against IEEPA Authority

In a significant ruling, the Court of International Trade in New York determined that former President Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) when imposing several tariffs. The court's decision halted Trump's 30% tariffs on China, 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada, and 10% universal tariffs on most imports. However, tariffs on autos, steel, and aluminum under Section 232 remained unaffected. Prior to this ruling, Judge T. Kent Wetherell suggested Trump had authority under IEEPA but did not issue an order. Instead, he transferred the case to the Court of International Trade. The three-judge panel, including judges from different administrations, upheld the halt, granting a permanent injunction against the tariffs. The Trump administration swiftly appealed the ruling, highlighting its broader implications for trade policies. This decision not only impacts existing trade deals but also underscores the legal constraints on executive authority in imposing tariffs.

Published: 5/29/2025