SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators, including Lisa Murkowski, Chuck Grassley, Maria Cantwell, Jerry Moran, Amy Klobuchar, Mark Warner, Mitch McConnell, and Michael Bennet, have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening Congressional oversight over U.S. trade policy. The Trade Review Act of 2025 seeks to reestablish the limits on the president's capacity to impose tariffs without Congressional approval. This legislation is inspired by the 1973 War Powers Resolution.

Senator Murkowski commented on the impact of tariffs by saying, "The uncertainties caused by tariffs have already impacted markets and capital investment, and soon they’ll hit families, grocery stores, and local businesses." She emphasized the importance of Congress having a key role in imposing tariffs. "This legislation reaffirms Congress’s role in levying tariffs, and I’m intent on making sure the voices of Alaskans are heard in these critical discussions - because we’ll certainly have to live with the consequences," Murkowski noted.

The bill proposes to restore the balance of power as originally laid out in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. It outlines requirements for the president to notify Congress within 48 hours about new tariffs or increases. The notification should explain the reasons and provide an analysis of potential impacts on businesses and consumers.

Congress is required to approve the new tariff within 60 days; otherwise, the tariffs will expire. Furthermore, Congress can end tariffs anytime by passing a resolution of disapproval. Exclusions under this bill include anti-dumping and countervailing duties.

The full text of the bill is available for public view.