The U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, ruling on Feb. 20, 2026 that the administration exceeded its authority by using a federal emergency-powers law to impose broad import taxes. The decision also undercuts targeted tariffs the administration said were aimed at addressing fentanyl trafficking, and represents a major legal setback for the White House’s trade agenda.
- The ruling finds the emergency-powers law cited by the administration did not authorize the tariff program as implemented.
- The decision covers the worldwide “reciprocal” tariff framework and related targeted import taxes tied to fentanyl trafficking claims.
- The tariffs cannot take effect under the invalidated legal theory absent a new lawful basis or congressional action.
- The case directly tests the scope of presidential authority to impose broad tariffs without explicit tariff legislation.
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Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
