Bill led by Sen. Shaheen would block the President’s authority to impose duties or tariff-rate quotas on imports to the U.S.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As President Trump reversed course and announced his proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico will begin March 4th, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s (D-N.H.) Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act, which would shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The bill would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools.
This week, Senator Welch also voted against Jamieson Greer, Trump’s pick to serve as U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), about whom he expressed reservations during the nominee’s confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee. Senator Welch released the following statement:
“We need trade policies that are rooted in a ‘Do No Harm’ approach, not ones that make things harder for Vermont businesses and consumers. I’ve heard from hardworking Vermonters who have told me that Trump’s tariffs and Trade War would only harm our businesses, farmers, and families. Trump’s tariffs on Canada, Vermont’s largest trading partner, will hammer small and rural businesses that depend on trade with our neighbor.
“We need to fight against these tariffs in every way that we can, and that includes having a U.S. Trade Representative who will stand up for American consumers and small businesses. Jamieson Greer made it clear that he lacks courage or capacity to stand up to President Trump and will be a rubber stamp for the President’s chaotic economic policies. It’s why I voted against him and why I will push back against any and all trade policies he puts forth that would harm Vermonters.
“Over the last few weeks, the President has made it clear that he’s ready to leverage the economic wellbeing of everyday Americans to pursue misguided foreign policy goals. It’s crucial that we shield Americans from the consequences of Trump’s reckless actions. That’s why I’m proud to support the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act, which will limit how the White House can impose these tax increases and protect Vermonters from price hikes.”
Learn more about the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act.
Read the full text of the bill.
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