Texas Rep. Moran unveils TRUST Act to use tariff revenue for debt reduction
FIRST ON FOX: Texas Rep. Nathaniel Moran Proposes Bill to Use Tariff Revenues to Tackle National Debt
Texas Rep. Nathaniel Moran has introduced a groundbreaking legislation known as the Tariff Revenue Used to Secure Tomorrow (TRUST) Act. This bill aims to utilize the billions of dollars generated from tariffs to create a trust fund dedicated to reducing America’s massive $37 trillion national debt.
The TRUST Act would establish a special account called the Tariff Trust Fund within the Treasury Department. Starting in fiscal year 2026, any tariff revenue collected above the 2025 baseline level would be directed into this fund. The funds in the Tariff Trust Fund could only be allocated towards reducing the federal deficit during times when the government is running a deficit.
According to Rep. Moran, “President Trump’s bold use of tariffs has already proven effective in bringing foreign nations back to the negotiating table and securing better trade deals for America. The TRUST Act ensures that these tariff revenues are utilized to address our national debt and safeguard the financial future of our nation.”
Rep. Nathaniel Moran, R-Texas, walks down the House steps after the final votes in the Capitol before Congress’ October recess on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024.
Recent data shows that the U.S. collected over $31 billion in tariff revenues in August, marking the highest monthly total for 2025. Total tariff revenue for the year has surpassed $183.6 billion, indicating a significant increase from previous years.
The surge in tariff revenues coincides with a federal appeals court ruling that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority by imposing global tariffs using emergency powers. While the ruling does not impact existing tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, it underscores the importance of congressional oversight on trade policy.
Treasury Secretary Scott Betting has suggested that tariff revenues could help lower the national debt, which currently stands at nearly $37.4 trillion as of September 3.
Scott Bessent, U.S. treasury secretary, during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing in Washington, D.C., on June 11, 2025.
“We must act urgently to address our national debt and secure the financial stability of our nation,” Moran emphasized. The potential for tariffs to generate over $500 billion in revenue highlights the significant impact that trade policies can have on the economy.
As the debate over government spending and deficit reduction continues, Rep. Moran’s TRUST Act represents a proactive approach to utilizing tariff revenues for the benefit of the country’s long-term financial health.
