Senate Democrats push bill to refund up to $175 billion in Trump-era tariffs
Feb 24th 2026
After the Supreme Court found key tariffs unlawful, Democrats want Customs to repay duties with interest within 180 days and prioritize small businesses.
- The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that President Trump exceeded his authority under the 1977 IEEPA when imposing sweeping tariffs and did not order refunds.
- Senate Democrats introduced legislation to require U.S. Customs and Border Protection to repay what lawmakers call unlawfully collected duties, up to about $175 billion, with interest within 180 days of enactment.
- The bill would direct CBP to prioritize small businesses and coordinate with the Small Business Administration to provide refund guidance.
- Lead sponsors include Senators Ron Wyden, Ed Markey and Jeanne Shaheen, who say the refunds are needed to help consumers, small businesses and manufacturers.
- The administration says the Supreme Court remanded the refunds question to a lower court, leaving the timing and process uncertain.
- Senate Democrats also plan to block a proposed 15 percent global tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Act, and extending that rate beyond 150 days would require congressional approval.