On Monday, August 3rd, 2026, approximately 25 Democratic-controlled states, led by Oregon, Arizona, and California, filed a lawsuit against President Trump over his administration's new global tariffs. These tariffs, announced last month, impose surcharges ranging from 10 to 12.5 percent on imported goods from 60 trading partners.

The states argue that these tariffs are “equally unlawful” to previous tariffs the Supreme Court invalidated in a 6-3 ruling, which found that Trump could not use an emergency statute to impose sweeping levies. This latest tariff effort relies on Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which authorizes tariffs in response to unfair trade practices that restrict U.S. commerce.

The administration justifies the tariffs by citing a months-long investigation into forced labor practices overseas. However, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is accused of not following the mandated procedures under Section 301, prompting the states to demand that the tariffs be set aside and that any deposits paid be refunded.

This lawsuit adds to a series of legal challenges recently launched by small businesses opposing the new tariffs.

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