H.R.1903 - Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1903, the Congressional Trade Authority Act of 2025, aims to amend the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The bill seeks to limit the President's authority to adjust imports that are deemed a threat to national security. It shifts some responsibilities to the Secretary of Defense and requires congressional approval for presidential actions adjusting imports.
Expected Effects
The bill would increase congressional oversight of trade adjustments made for national security reasons. It would also change the process for determining whether imports pose a national security threat, involving the Secretary of Defense more directly. Presidential actions would be subject to congressional approval, potentially slowing down or preventing certain trade adjustments.
Potential Benefits
- Increased congressional oversight ensures greater accountability in trade decisions.
- Clearer definitions of 'covered article' and 'national security' provide more focused application of trade restrictions.
- The exclusion process administered by the ITC offers businesses a way to mitigate potential harm from import adjustments.
- The sunset clause limits the duration of import adjustments, preventing indefinite restrictions.
- The bill promotes a more balanced approach to national security and economic considerations in trade policy.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The requirement for congressional approval could lead to political gridlock and delays in addressing genuine national security threats.
- Increased involvement of multiple agencies (Defense, Commerce, ITC) may create bureaucratic inefficiencies.
- The limited definition of 'national security' could prevent addressing broader economic threats.
- Transition rules and retroactive application could create uncertainty for businesses.
- The sunset provision might lead to premature termination of necessary trade adjustments.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill touches on the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches, particularly concerning trade regulation. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. This bill seeks to reassert congressional authority in trade matters related to national security, potentially balancing presidential power in this area. The bill also establishes specific procedures for congressional approval, aligning with the legislative process outlined in Article I.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).