More than 20 US states sue Trump administration over 'illegal' tariffs

Several American states have filed a lawsuit over President Trump's newly imposed import taxes after his initial 'Liberation Day' tariffs were shot down by the Supreme Court.

Last year, Trump announced a series of huge tariffs on numerous countries across the globe, which ranged from 10 percent to an eye-watering 50 percent.

Less than a year on from his so-called Liberation Day and the Supreme Court ruled that the tariffs he wanted to bring in were unlawful as the 'national emergency' reasoning he used for bringing them in didn't stand.

Of course, the president has since found a loophole and he's wanting to bring in 15 percent tariffs on most of the world under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The tariffs can only been enforced for 150 days unless Congress agrees to extend them.

Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariffs were shot down by the Supreme Court (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

The 15 percent rates are yet to come into effect, but could start as soon as this week, CNBC reports.

Ten percent tariffs have already been enforced though, and were brought in just days after the Supreme Court shot down Trump's 2025 taxes. They came into effect on February 24.

Supposedly, these new tariffs are essential to reduce America’s longstanding trade deficits. However, 24 US states are now suing the Trump administration as they believe that the president is once again overstepping his power.

The suit, which is led by New York’s attorney general Letitia James, argues that Trump doesn't have the authority to bring in the tariffs and demands that the states are refunded for the tariff costs.

They argue Section 122 can only be used in specific, limited circumstances, not for sweeping import taxes. The suit also contends the tariffs will drive up costs for states, businesses and consumers.

New York’s attorney general Letitia James is leading the new lawsuit (Natasha Moustache/Getty Images)

James said in a statement: "Once again, President Trump is ignoring the law and the constitution to effectively raise taxes on consumers and small businesses.

"The president is causing more economic chaos and expecting Americans to foot the bill. These tariffs will only drive up the cost of living, and I will continue to uphold the rule of law to protect New Yorkers."

Meanwhile, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield has argued that 'the focus right now should be on paying people back, not doubling down on illegal tariffs'.

Also joining the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.