Trump’s Illegal Tariffs: Refunds for Companies, Not Consumers
NEWS & RESEARCH
The Supreme Court ruled that President Trump’s global tariffs violated federal law. While these policies caused significant market uncertainty, a report confirms that U.S. consumers bore the brunt of the cost through higher prices. Although impacted companies can claim federal refunds, everyday shoppers are unlikely to see any reimbursement. Meanwhile, beginning on October 22, 2026, a new US Customs and Border Protection policy governing international mail shipments will end the duty-free exemption for prescription drugs from Canada. The Trump administration claimed the exemption was being used to facilitate illegal drug shipments and evade tariffs. A study by the Campaign for Personal Prescription Information found that US consumers saved, on average, 65% on 10 commonly prescribed drugs. An August 2026 survey found that a three-month supply of the popular blood-thinning drug Eliquis cost $566 from Canadian pharmacies, but $1,017 from Amazon and $1,029 from GoodRx.
Sources: CNN | The Guardian | USA Today | Pitsburgh Post-Gazette
ANALYSIS & OPINION
Consumers will not be compensated for the "massive damage" caused by the tariffs. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Times columnist Michael Hiltzik criticized the policies as economically "inexplicable," suggesting they functioned primarily as tools for "geopolitical bullying."
Sources: The Hill | Opinion: Los Angeles Times
HOW TO FIX IT
Federal action:
Sunset Tariffs: Allow Section 122 tariffs to expire in July 2026.
Pass the Stop Global Tariffs Act to eliminate recent 10% levies.
Enact the Tariff Refund Act of 2026 to accelerate CBP payments and remove administrative hurdles for importers.
Legislation: H.R.6781 - Trump Tariff Rebate Act
Resolution S.J.Res.49 - A joint resolution terminating the national emergency declared to impose global tariffs