Efforts underway to restrict presidential tariff powers

Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate have reintroduced the Trade Security Act of 2019. If passed, the Act would limit presidential powers to introduce Section 232 tariffs, like those on steel/aluminum imports, for national security reasons. Approximately one week earlier, the Bicameral Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2019 was introduced in the House and Senate. The earlier Act would repeal tariffs and quotas imposed within the last four years. According to NAFEM’s trade policy advisor at Barnes & Thornburg, Christine Sohar-Henter, it is less likely that the Bicameral Act will pass as it raises complicated constitutional questions. NAFEM will continue monitoring both Acts.