Bipartisan bill would require congressional notification, approval of new tariffs
FILE-Anti-Trump protesters hold placards outside of the Pennsylvania State Capitol. (Photo by Paul Weaver/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Two senators, who are senior members of the Senate Finance Committee, are introducing a bill requiring Congress to approve all tariffs within 60 days.
What is the ‘Trade Review Act of 2025’?
What we know:
The legislation restores Congress’ authority and responsibility over tariffs by placing limits on the president’s power to impose tariffs, according to a release from Senator Maria Cantwell’s office.
Republican Senator Chuck Grassley and Senator Cantwell introduced legislation calling for the president to notify Congress about new tariffs with an explanation and reason, including an evaluation of the possible effect on U.S. businesses and consumers.
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According to the bill, Congress would have to pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff within 60 days and if it didn’t happen within this timeframe, new tariffs on imports would expire.
A joint resolution of approval can be introduced by any member of Congress during the 60-day period after notification. While a joint resolution of disapproval can be introduced at any time after the notification is received.
Congress.gov noted that the bill is after the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which requires the president to inform Congress when sending troops to foreign countries without congressional approval and gives legislators supervision to limit actions without that approval.
What we don't know:
It’s unknown at this time if the legislation will receive enough support or votes to be passed and enacted.
Lawmakers oppose Trump tariffs
Local perspective:
Four Republicans voted with Democrats to pass a resolution on Wednesday opposing President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, although it doesn’t have the force of law, according to The Hill.
RELATED: Trump tariffs target remote, uninhabited islands with no U.S. trade
The vote came hours after Trump announced he imposed a 10% tariff on all imports and would enforce higher rates on imports from the European Union, China, Vietnam, and Japan.
The Source: Information for this story was provided by a release from Senator Maria Cantwell’s office, Congress.gov, and The Hill. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.