MFU issues statement on Supreme Court’s Tariff Decision

Montana Farmers Union President Walter Schweitzer welcomed today’s Supreme Court decision that overturns the Trump Administration’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs but lamented the damage that remains in their wake.

“Hopefully the court’s decision will embolden Congress to exercise its powers and do its job,” Schweitzer said.

Nonetheless, a mess created by the current administration remains, while the US ag sector continues to reel from the tariffs with no clear plan to equitably refund the tariffs.

“The damage that was caused by the tariffs outweighs the money collected in tariff dollars. We have lost customer relationships that we spent decades cultivating,” Schweitzer said. “Because of the illegal tariffs, our former customers will treat us as supplier of last resort and supplier of lowest price, and both our customers and our competitors have developed infrastructure and relationships that exclude the USA.” 

Consumers have suffered under the tariffs as well.

“There have been some studies that show the cost to be over a $1,000 for each American — but will they see this refund or will big businesses?” said Schweitzer, adding he’s dubious that big businesses will pass any refunds onto customers.

“As the only farm organization that directly challenged the Administration’s authority to impose tariffs in court, today’s decision is a welcomed affirmation of MFU’s assertion of Congress’ responsibility,” Schweitzer said.