No Tariffs on Groceries Act of 2025
Summary
The "No Tariffs on Groceries Act of 2025" aims to limit the President's authority to impose duties on food articles. It requires the President to seek Congressional approval before imposing any new tariffs or tariff-rate quotas on food items. This bill excludes antidumping or countervailing duties under the Tariff Act of 1930.
Expected Effects
This act would shift the power to impose tariffs on food from the executive branch to the legislative branch. It introduces a new layer of Congressional oversight for trade policy related to food. The change will make it more difficult for the President to unilaterally enact tariffs on groceries.
Potential Benefits
- Could lead to more stable food prices by preventing sudden tariff increases.
- May protect consumers from increased costs due to tariffs on food items.
- Increases Congressional oversight of trade policy, promoting greater accountability.
- Could foster more predictable trade relationships with other countries regarding food products.
- Potentially reduces the risk of trade wars impacting the agricultural sector and food supply.
Potential Disadvantages
- May hinder the President's ability to respond quickly to unfair trade practices by other countries.
- Could create political gridlock, preventing necessary tariffs from being imposed.
- The expedited procedures may still allow tariffs to be imposed relatively quickly if Congress approves.
- Could disproportionately affect domestic industries that rely on tariffs for protection from foreign competition.
- May complicate trade negotiations by requiring Congressional approval for tariff adjustments.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. By requiring Congressional approval for tariffs on food, the bill reinforces Congress's role in trade policy. The bill also respects the separation of powers by defining the roles of the executive and legislative branches in trade matters.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).