The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a stinging rebuke to the Trump administration Friday, ruling that its sweeping “emergency” tariffs violated federal law. The decision caps a year-long legal battle led by New York Attorney General Letitia James and attorneys general from 11 other states.
The court sided with the coalition, declaring the tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) illegal. James and her allies had sued in April 2025, arguing the measures – which jacked up costs for imports – wreaked havoc on workers, families, and businesses without proper congressional authority.
“These illegal tariffs caused immense economic chaos, raising costs for families and businesses throughout our country,” James said in a statement. “The Supreme Court has agreed that this administration has no authority to impose massive new taxes on a whim. This is a critical victory for the rule of law and our economy.”
The legal saga moved swiftly: In May 2025, the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked the tariffs. The U.S. Court of Appeals upheld that ruling in August. Now, the Supreme Court’s final word means the president cannot use IEEPA for broad tariffs via executive order alone.
Joining James were the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Vermont. The ruling could unwind billions in duties on goods from steel to consumer products, easing price pressures amid ongoing inflation concerns.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
