SE Kansas News

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, along with a bipartisan group of senators, has introduced the Trade Review Act of 2025. This proposed legislation aims to reestablish Congress's authority in determining and approving U.S. trade policies by mandating congressional approval for any unilateral tariffs introduced by the executive branch. The bill recalls the efforts of Sen. Chuck Grassley, specifically his 2019 Section 232 initiative during the Trump administration.

According to Moran, "Every state has unique industries that are impacted differently by changes in global markets and trade policies, such as agriculture, car manufacturing and aircraft production." He emphasized the Constitution's provision granting Congress the power to make foreign commerce decisions, including tariffs. Moran noted, "This legislation allows the President to use tariffs to respond to emergencies while permitting Congress to weigh the appropriateness of any tariffs that are imposed."

The proposed bill underlines Congress's powers and duties concerning tariffs as detailed in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution. The key points of the legislation include:

- A requirement for the President to notify Congress of any new tariffs or tariff increases within 48 hours, including an explanation and impact analysis on American businesses and consumers.

- Congress has a 60-day window to pass a joint resolution of approval for new tariffs, failing which these tariffs will expire.

- Congress retains the power to terminate tariffs at any time via a resolution of disapproval.

- Anti-dumping and countervailing duties remain unaffected by this legislation.

This initiative marks a significant attempt to balance the executive powers with legislative oversight in trade matters.