economy
March 13, 2026
Trump tariffs: Refunds to companies should go to workers as bonuses, raises, Greer says
The United States government could end up paying $165 billion of more in refunds for Trump's IEEPA tariffs that the Supreme Court ruled were illegal.
TL;DR
- U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer believes companies receiving refunds for voided Trump tariffs should give the money to their workers as bonuses or raises.
- Hundreds of American importers are seeking refunds for tariffs that the Supreme Court ruled illegal in a 6-3 decision.
- The Supreme Court stated that President Trump did not have the authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose these tariffs.
- A U.S. Customs and Border Protection official indicated that a system to process refund claims is 70% complete, but a prior order to begin refunds is suspended.
- Greer stated the purpose of the tariffs was to address trade imbalances, and passing refunds to workers aligns with that goal.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expects tariffs to return by August, as the Trump administration is exploring other authorities to impose import duties.
- Greer's office has initiated trade investigations into nearly 80 countries under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which addresses unfair trade practices.
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