Attorney General Dan Rayfield has initiated legal action to halt tariffs imposed by President Trump, arguing they are illegal without congressional approval. A coalition of attorneys general filed a motion for a preliminary injunction seeking to pause the tariffs enacted through four executive orders.
“These tariffs are doing real damage to Oregonians and our small businesses. Families cannot be expected to pay more at the store at a time when they’re already struggling to afford the basics,” Rayfield stated. He further added, “The President can’t just slap on tariffs that hurt working people without following the law. I don’t know many families who can afford an extra $3800 a year.”
The motion requests that the U.S. Court of International Trade order federal agencies to cease collecting these tariffs, which include a 145 percent tariff on most Chinese products, 25 percent on Canadian and Mexican goods, and 10 percent on imports from other countries. It also seeks to prevent an increase in tariffs planned for July 9.
Economic analysis suggests households will incur an additional $3,800 annually due to these measures. Todd Nelson of Bountiful Farms highlighted damage to business relationships with Canada: “Many Canadian nurseries now have ‘Buy Canadian First’ initiatives... it’s heartbreaking,” he said.
Oregon state agencies and universities anticipate budgetary challenges due to increased costs, potentially leading to reduced services or delayed investments.
A report submitted indicates states involved could face over $3.4 billion yearly in extra expenses from these tariffs. The Federal Reserve noted businesses foresee higher input costs and plan to pass these onto consumers.
Under Article I of the Constitution, Congress holds authority over taxes and duties; however, Trump's executive orders cite powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This act applies only during emergencies presenting unusual threats from abroad and does not permit tariff imposition.
The case titled State of Oregon et al., v. Trump et al., is being reviewed by a three-judge panel at the U.S. Court of International Trade (Case No. 1:25-cv-00077-GSK-TMR-JAR). Attorney Generals Kris Mayes from Arizona and representatives from ten other states join Rayfield in this lawsuit.