American business groups are demanding refunds after the US Supreme Court ruled that Donald Trump exceeded his authority by imposing tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The ruling, delivered on Friday, struck down the tariffs but did not address whether the government must repay the estimated $133bn collected.
The National Retail Federation called for 'a seamless process to refund the tariffs to US importers', stating the refunds would provide an economic boost. The US Chamber of Commerce also urged swift repayment, with chief policy officer Neil Bradley noting that over 200,000 small business importers would benefit. However, the Supreme Court left lower courts to decide on refunds, a process that could take years.
Dan Anthony, director of the We Pay the Tariffs coalition, highlighted the severe impact on small businesses, many of which took out loans and halted expansion to pay the tariffs. 'A legal victory is meaningless without actual relief,' he said. The coalition called for automatic, full refunds without burdensome procedures.
The American Apparel and Footwear Association urged Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to provide clear guidance on obtaining refunds. However, CBP is likely to continue collecting IEEPA tariffs until replaced by new measures. Trade attorney Greg Husisian predicted a protracted legal battle, noting that refunds may only be issued after a final, unappealable ruling.
President Trump dismissed the refund issue as 'crazy' and predicted years of litigation. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent agreed, suggesting the process could be drawn out over weeks, months or years, adding, 'I've got a feeling the American people won't see it.'
