Federal appeals court pauses block on Trump’s tariffs pending review

President Trump’s tariffs will continue to be enforced after a federal appeals court decision to pause a lower court ruling that had blocked them. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit granted the stay and set an expedited review of the case, which questions whether Trump overstepped his authority under federal law.

The case revolves around challenges from five small businesses and a group of states arguing that Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs was illegal. The U.S. Court of International Trade had previously sided with the plaintiffs, ordering a halt to the tariffs, but that decision is now on hold pending further review.

The Federal Circuit determined that both sides presented compelling arguments and that a stay was warranted based on legal standards. The court emphasized that the stay was necessary to maintain the status quo during the appeal process. The case will be heard by the full panel of active judges in an en banc session, a rare occurrence reserved for significant legal matters.

Oral arguments are scheduled for July 31 at 10:00 a.m. in Courtroom 201 at the Federal Circuit courthouse in Washington, D.C. The Liberty Justice Center, representing the five businesses, expressed disappointment in the temporary allowance of the tariffs but welcomed the accelerated review.

White House spokesman Kush Desai defended the administration’s executive powers, stating that they are lawfully utilizing the powers granted by the Constitution and Congress to address national emergencies related to trade deficits and drug trafficking. Desai welcomed the stay order from the US Circuit Court of Appeals and expressed confidence in prevailing in court.

Overall, the court’s decision to maintain the tariffs temporarily has sparked debate and anticipation for the full review by the Federal Circuit. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the use of executive powers in imposing tariffs. As the legal battle continues, all eyes are on the upcoming oral arguments and the ultimate resolution of this contentious issue.