Nevada Attorney General Aaron D. Ford, alongside a coalition of 12 attorneys general, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration in response to recent tariff increases. The legal action seeks to halt four executive orders issued by President Trump that allegedly enable him to raise tariffs globally without congressional approval. The lawsuit, titled State of Oregon, et al., v. Trump, et al., was submitted to the U.S. Court of International Trade.
AG Ford stated, “The president has certain authority to impose tariffs, but the approach he has taken is not only unlawful but also completely disrupts both the global economy and the day-to-day lives of Nevadans trying to make ends meet.” He emphasized his commitment to challenging presidential overreach in court.
The executive orders in question involve imposing tariffs of 145% on most Chinese products, 25% on goods from Canada and Mexico, and 10% on imports from other countries. Additionally, there is a plan to increase tariffs on imports from 46 other trading partners by July 9.
Experts predict these tariffs could lead to $985 million in additional costs for Nevada businesses due to increased import expenses. These costs are expected to be transferred onto consumers within the state.
Under Article I of the Constitution, Congress holds the power “To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises.” The executive orders reference powers granted by the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which was enacted in 1977 for emergencies presenting an “unusual and extraordinary threat” from abroad. However, it does not grant authority for tariff imposition—a move unprecedented until this year by President Trump.
Attorney General Ford’s involvement aligns with lead Attorneys General Dan Rayfield from Oregon and Kris Mayes from Arizona as well as attorneys general from Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York and Vermont.
