Learning Resources and hand2mind have urged the Supreme Court to quickly address the legal questions surrounding President Donald Trump’s tariffs, which have affected import costs across many industries, including toys.
The family-owned U.S. toy companies companies argue that the administration overstepped its authority by unilaterally imposing sweeping tariffs, relying on a 1977 law called the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This law grants presidents limited power to regulate imports under certain conditions, but a lower court ruled it does not give blanket authority to raise global trade barriers.
In their filing, the toy companies emphasized the widespread impact of these tariffs on businesses and consumers and urged the court to expedite review rather than wait for the usual appellate process.
“In light of the tariffs’ massive impact on virtually every business and consumer across the nation, and the unremitting whiplash caused by the unfettered tariffing power the president claims, challenges to the IEEPA tariffs cannot await the normal appellate process,” the companies said in their filing.
The filing also noted that on April 2, Trump increased the nation’s effective tariff rate dramatically, including a 10% universal duty on most imported goods.
A related case also challenged Trump’s use of IEEPA, and a federal court in New York agreed the president had exceeded his authority. However, the administration appealed, and an appeals court paused that ruling, allowing tariffs to remain in place while legal proceedings continue.
The toy companies’ request asks the Supreme Court to decide whether to hear the case before its summer recess, suggesting oral arguments take place in the fall. The Department of Justice said it will continue to defend the president’s trade policies.
This case could have significant implications for the toy industry as companies navigate fluctuating import costs tied to the ongoing tariff dispute.
For the latest on the evolving tariff situation, click here.
