KEEPING AN EYE ON TARIFFS

Tariffs can increase the cost of domestic infrastructure projects and disrupt supply chains for our industry. The U.S. Supreme Court recently struck down most of President Trump’s country-specific tariffs, ruling that the President improperly relied on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The Court determined that Congress did not grant the President authority under that law to impose such tariffs.

However, tariffs enacted under other authorities tied to national security – such as those on steel and aluminum – remain in place. The Court also did not provide clear guidance on how tariff refunds will be handled, and additional legal challenges are expected.

Following the ruling, President Trump moved quickly to impose new tariffs under other statutes, beginning with a temporary 15% global tariff for 150 days. While these laws provide clearer authority, they are more limited and less flexible than the emergency powers previously used.

NUCA has consistently warned that tariffs imposed outside the normal administrative process—particularly on steel, aluminum, and other key construction materials—can drive up infrastructure costs and strain supply chains. NUCA will continue to keep members informed on potential tariff refunds and future trade policy developments.