Yes, Congress is expected to heavily weigh in on tariff policy in 2026, driven by a landmark Supreme Court ruling on February 20, 2026, which struck down President Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose broad tariffs. The Court affirmed that the constitutional authority to levy tariffs rests with Congress.
The
Conference Board +3
Here is the outlook for Congressional action on tariffs in 2026:
Reclaiming Authority: The ruling forces Congress back into the "driver's seat" on trade policy. Lawmakers, particularly Republicans in swing districts or from farming states, are now under pressure to vote on whether to support or oppose new, narrower tariffs proposed by the administration.
Legislative Efforts to Counter Tariffs: In response to the ruling, lawmakers have introduced legislation to act. This includes:
The RELIEF Act: Aims to provide automatic tariff refunds.
The Prevent Tariff Abuse Act: Would stop the president from imposing tariffs under the guise of a national emergency without Congressional approval.
The Congressional Trade Authority Act: Requires the president to submit to Congress any proposal to adjust tariffs under Section 232.
Potential for New Legislation: While the administration has signaled it will use alternative statutes (Section 122 and Section 301) to replace the struck-down tariffs, Congress may move to limit these tools.
Divided Views: The issue is a major point of contention within the GOP, with some Republicans celebrating the ruling as a win for constitutional separation of powers, while others face pressure from the administration to support new duties.
Congressman
Greg Stanton (.gov) +4
Contextual
Factors for 2026:
Economic Impact: The Supreme Court ruling creates uncertainty regarding whether billions of dollars in tariffs already collected will be refunded.
2026 Midterms: With midterm elections approaching, the economic consequences of tariffs—such as higher prices for consumers—are expected to be a major campaign theme.
Future
Legal Battles: Experts suggest the 2026 ruling is not the last time the
Supreme Court will be involved, as the administration tests alternative legal
avenues for trade restrictions.
Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget +4
Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader
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