New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport joined a multistate coalition in filing a lawsuit challenging new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The complaint argues the administration lacks legal authority to enact the levies without congressional approval.
The lawsuit challenges the administration’s use of Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 to impose 15% tariffs on most products worldwide. The move came shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that earlier tariffs issued under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act were unlawful, which NJBIZ previously reported on.
State officials said the new tariffs would raise costs for consumers, businesses and the state government. They cite analysis suggesting Americans ultimately pay for most tariff costs.
The complaint argues the tariffs violate federal law, the constitutional separation of powers and the Administrative Procedure Act.
The case, filed in the U.S. Court of International Trade, was brought by Oregon and joined by New Jersey and more than 20 other states.
“Like the rest of our country, New Jersey is in the midst of an affordability crisis. Yet instead of finding ways to lower the costs of groceries or utilities, President Trump is back to levying unlawful tariffs – again,” said Gov. Mikie Sherrill. “We cannot depend on the Trump Administration to fight for working families, but I will.”
“Tariffs raise prices for hard-working families and businesses across New Jersey,” said Davenport. “I will keep fighting against the imposition of unnecessary and illegal costs on our consumers. We’re going to court to protect our state from these illogical and illegal tariffs.”
The Trump administration did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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