Major US court decision hits Trump’s tariff policy

The Supreme Court of the United States dealt a big legal setback to Donald Trump by ruling that many of his sweeping tariffs were illegal. In a 6-3 decision, the justices said Trump overstepped his authority by using a 1977 emergency powers law to impose broad tariffs without clear approval from United States Congress. 

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that the emergency law did not grant the president the power to levy import taxes, a power Congress alone holds. The ruling struck down tariffs on imports from many countries, citing the “major questions” doctrine — a principle requiring clear legislative backing for actions with huge economic impact. 

The decision could mean billions in refunds for companies and importers who paid the levies, though details are still being worked out by lower courts. Some justices who dissented argued that tariffs can be a traditional tool for managing trade and economic policy. 

Critics of the tariff plan welcomed the ruling as a win for the Constitution and consumer interests, while Trump’s supporters said the decision undermines efforts to protect American industry. The White House has indicated it may explore other legal avenues for trade measures going forward.