Bipartisan Senators Propose Legislation to Rein in Presidential Tariff Powers

In a significant legislative initiative, two senior lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at reasserting Congress’s authority over U.S. tariffs. This move follows President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a comprehensive tariff strategy during his “Liberation Day” speech.

On Thursday, Senators Chuck Grassley, a Republican from Iowa, and Maria Cantwell, a Democrat from Washington, unveiled the Trade Review Act of 2025. This proposed bill would require the President to notify Congress about any new tariffs within a tight 48 hours of their imposition.

Key Provisions of the Trade Review Act

The Trade Review Act mandates that the President provides a rationale for any new tariffs, along with an analysis of their potential impact on the U.S. economy. Congress would then have a window of 60 days to approve these tariffs or allow them to expire, effectively restoring legislative oversight over trade policy.

By enacting this bill, the lawmakers aim to shift some trade policymaking power back to Congress. This legislative proposal is a crucial move to ensure that Congress has a substantive role in deciding tariff matters, which have increasingly become the realm of the executive branch.

Congressional Response and Rationale

Senator Grassley stated, “For too long, Congress has delegated its clear authority to regulate interstate and foreign commerce to the executive branch.” He emphasized that the Trade Review Act represents a continued commitment to restoring Congress’s constitutional role in trade policy. Grassley, who has expressed skepticism about tariffs, noted the necessity of congressional involvement.

Similarly, Senator Cantwell expressed her concerns regarding the repercussions of Trump’s tariffs on various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. She stated, “Ultimately, consumers will pay the price. It’s time for Congress to take action to counter the president’s trade war.”

Market Reaction and Economic Considerations

The proposed legislation comes as U.S. industries brace for potential impacts from the President’s tariff policies, particularly in sectors reliant on exports. Grassley’s home state of Iowa depends heavily on farm crop exports, whereas Cantwell’s Washington state is home to numerous export-driven companies, including aerospace giant Boeing.

Grassley and Cantwell’s bipartisan cooperation signals a significant moment in the congressional effort to redefine tariff authority. This proposed act could reshape not only the dynamics of trade policy in the coming years but also the way tariffs are perceived by the public and industries affected.

Recent Developments in Tariff Policy

The introduction of this legislation follows a recent incident in which four Republican senators joined their Democratic counterparts in approving a resolution that would negate Trump’s emergency declaration imposing tariffs on Canadian imports. While Grassley did not support this particular resolution, the collective sentiment indicates a growing bipartisan concern over the direction of U.S. trade policy.

Moreover, in a rather vivid metaphor, Trump likened the tariffs to a medical operation, exclaiming that the “patient lived, and is healing.” He asserted that the economic prognosis is favorable, stating the patient will emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before, as he conveyed via Truth Social.

Looking Forward: The Path Ahead

The Trade Review Act of 2025 stands as a testament to the evolving conversation surrounding U.S. trade policy. Lawmakers will need to navigate a complex political landscape as they advocate for this legislation. Given the polarized atmosphere in Congress, the path to passage may be challenging, yet the urgency behind this act reflects the significant consequences of tariff decisions on the American economy.

The implications of this bill extend beyond party lines, resonating across various sectors of the economy. With congressional power being a focal point of this proposal, its passage could redefine the balance of power in trade policymaking. Grassley and Cantwell have initiated a crucial dialogue as they strive to ensure that Congress remains an influential player in the realm of international trade.

As discussions unfold, the political ramifications for both supporters and opponents of this bill could shape the future of tariff policy in the United States. Lawmakers will continue to articulate their positions as they respond to emerging economic challenges and seek to protect the interests of their constituents.