Omaha City Wire

Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, alongside Reps. Jeff Hurd of Colorado, Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey, and Gregory Meeks of New York, have introduced legislation aimed at restoring Congress' authority over U.S. trade policy. The proposed bill, known as H.R. 2665, The Trade Review Act of 2025, requires that any unilateral tariffs proposed by the executive branch receive congressional approval.

Rep. Bacon acknowledges his support for some Trump administration tariffs but underscores the importance of Congress's role per Article I Section 8 of the Constitution. He highlights the Founders' intent for checks and balances: "The Constitution clearly gives the authority for taxes and tariffs to Congress, but for too long, we have handed that authority to the executive branch," said Bacon.

Rep. Hurd, indicating his constitutional conservative stance, expressed his support for the bill, stating, "This isn’t a political issue for me. I believe Congress must reclaim its constitutionally mandated authority, and I would support this measure regardless of who is in the White House."

Rep. Gottheimer voiced concerns over the impact of tariffs on household costs: "When people are already struggling with higher costs, we must do everything possible to make their lives more affordable. President Trump’s tariffs are doing just the opposite." He supports the initiative to restore Congress’ power in overseeing foreign trade.

Rep. Meeks emphasized the misuse of tariffs by presidents as political weapons rather than strategic tools: "The Trade Review Act restores constitutional checks and balances by ensuring Congress has a voice before American families are hit with higher costs."

The bill outlines a process for Congressional review of tariffs imposed by the President. It mandates the President to inform Congress within 48 hours about any new or increased duties, along with an assessment of the impact on U.S. businesses and consumers. The initial duration of such duties would be limited to 60 days unless extended through a congressional resolution. Congress can also terminate the duty early via a disapproval resolution. The bill excludes antidumping and countervailing duties, subject to other statutes, and provides expedited procedures in Congress for relevant resolutions.