Reclaim Trade Powers Act
Reclaim Trade Powers Act
Plain Language Summary
# Reclaim Trade Powers Act - Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would remove a law that currently gives the President broad power to impose tariffs (taxes on imported goods) of up to 15% on foreign products for up to 150 days without needing congressional approval. The President can use this power when dealing with serious trade imbalances or international payment problems. By repealing this law, the bill would require the President to go through Congress to impose such tariffs rather than acting independently. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The bill would affect American businesses that import goods, domestic manufacturers who compete with imports, consumers who buy imported products, and the President's executive authority over trade policy.
It essentially shifts trade decision-making power from the President back to Congress. Currently, the bill is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA).
CRS Official Summary
Reclaim Trade Powers ActThis bill repeals the statute that directs the President to take certain actions, such as imposing a tariff of up to 15% for up to 150 days on articles imported into the United States, when necessary to address large and serious U.S. balance-of-payments deficits or certain other situations that present fundamental international payments problems.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.