PolicyBrief
S.J.RES. 49
119th CongressApr 30th 2025
A joint resolution terminating the national emergency declared to impose global tariffs.
SENATE FAILED

This joint resolution ends the national emergency that was declared to justify global tariffs.

Ron Wyden
D

Ron Wyden

Senator

OR

PartyTotal VotesYesNoDid Not Vote
Republican
533491
Democrat
454401
Independent
2200
LEGISLATION

End of the Line for Global Tariff Emergency: Congress Acts to Terminate EO 14257

Congress is moving to officially end the national emergency concerning global tariffs, the one declared back on April 2, 2025, through Executive Order 14257. This joint resolution acts like a switch, using the power granted by Section 202 of the National Emergencies Act to terminate that specific emergency declaration as soon as this resolution becomes law.

Unwinding the Emergency

So, what does shutting down this 'national emergency' actually do? In simple terms, it removes the specific justification used under that order to impose certain global tariffs. Think of it as pulling the legal foundation out from under those particular trade measures. The National Emergencies Act gives Congress the ability to review and end emergency declarations made by the President, and that's exactly what this resolution aims to achieve.

The Ripple Effect: From Ports to Prices

For everyday folks and businesses, the most direct potential impact revolves around costs. Ending the tariff emergency could lead to lower prices on imported goods – anything from electronics and clothing to building materials and car parts might see a change. Businesses that rely on importing materials or components for their operations, like manufacturers or construction firms using foreign steel, could see their expenses decrease. However, it's not necessarily good news for everyone. Domestic industries that were shielded from foreign competition by these tariffs might face new pressures as imported goods potentially become cheaper.

More Than Just Tariffs: A Power Check

Beyond the immediate economic effects, this action is also a statement about the balance of power. It represents Congress exercising its oversight role, specifically its authority under the National Emergencies Act to put a check on presidential emergency powers, particularly in the realm of international trade and tariffs. It's a procedural move with potentially significant real-world consequences for trade relationships and the economy.