The Supreme Court today ruled in Learning Resources v. Trump that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize President Trump’s unilateral imposition of worldwide tariffs. In a 6–3 decision, the Court concluded that IEEPA does not provide congressional authorization for the president to exercise such extraordinary power.
Elizabeth Goitein, Senior Director of the Liberty and National Security Program, had the following reaction:
“This ruling is a victory for the rule of law. Emergency powers like IEEPA give presidents vast powers that are highly vulnerable to abuse. The courts play a vital role in ensuring that presidents don’t stretch these powers beyond what Congress intended. The Supreme Court played that role today.”
Resources
- “What’s at Stake in the Supreme Court Tariffs Case,” by Elizabeth Goitein, November 1, 2025
- Friend-of-the-Court Brief: “IEEPA Authorization of Tariffs Litigation,” October 24, 2025
- "How the President Is Misusing Emergency Powers to Impose Worldwide Tariffs," by Elizabeth Goitein, April 9, 2025
