A coalition of 12 U.S. states has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in the U.S. Court of International Trade, challenging the legality of certain tariff policies that they argue are harming their economies and violating trade law.
The suit targets tariffs imposed on a range of imports, including steel, aluminum, and consumer goods, which the states say have disrupted supply chains, increased costs for businesses, and led to job losses in key sectors. The plaintiffs claim the administration exceeded its executive authority under the Trade Expansion Act and other statutes.
The lawsuit also raises constitutional questions, asserting that the federal government bypassed Congress in making trade decisions that carry far-reaching economic impacts.
The 12 states involved in the lawsuit are:
- California
- New York
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Massachusetts
- Connecticut
- Oregon
- Washington
- Pennsylvania
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- Maryland
Officials from these states argue that their economies have suffered disproportionately due to the tariffs, particularly industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and retail.
The U.S. Department of Commerce and Office of the U.S. Trade Representative have yet to comment on the lawsuit.
Legal analysts predict that the case could become a major test of presidential power in shaping trade policy unilaterally, with potentially significant implications for future administrations.
