Supreme Court Strikes Down Key Tariffs, Leaving Businesses Uncertain

Businesses in North Texas grapple with ambiguity over refunds and future tariff policies after landmark court ruling.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Supreme Court issued a 6-3 decision striking down the White House's use of emergency powers to impose tariffs on products from around the world. While businesses welcomed the ruling, they now face uncertainty over refunds, future tariff policies, and how to navigate the transition.

Why it matters

The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration had a significant impact on businesses, driving up costs and disrupting supply chains. The Supreme Court's decision to limit the president's ability to unilaterally impose tariffs is seen as a win for the business community, but the path forward remains unclear.

The details

The court ruled that the White House's use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to enact the tariffs was not valid. Businesses now face questions about refunds for the tariffs already collected, estimated to total up to $175 billion, as well as how the administration will seek to implement new tariffs through alternative legal authorities. Companies are having to adapt by finding new suppliers, getting more creative with sourcing, and navigating the ambiguity.

  • On February 23, 2026, the Supreme Court issued its 6-3 ruling striking down the tariffs.
  • Within hours of the decision, the Trump administration said it would 'invoke alternative legal authorities' to continue imposing tariffs.

The players

Brad Schweig

Vice president of operations at Sunnyland Outdoor Living, a business that sells patio furniture, fire pits, and other outdoor items.

Ray Perryman

President and CEO of The Perryman Group, an economic research and analysis firm.

David French

Executive vice president of government relations at the National Retail Federation.

Neil Bradley

Executive vice president and chief policy officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Brandon Barrick

Chief operating officer of Quality Home Furniture, a furniture and mattress business in Mesquite, Texas.

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What they’re saying

“The short-term effect is likely more uncertainty. The new across-the-board tariffs may reduce the effective rate modestly, but will add additional confusion as the administration seeks to use a variety of measures to implement temporary levies.”

— Ray Perryman, President and CEO (The Perryman Group)

“The refunds will serve as an economic boost and allow companies to reinvest in their operations, their employees and their customers.”

— David French, Executive vice president of government relations (National Retail Federation)

“Swift refunds of the impermissible tariffs will be meaningful for small business importers in this country.”

— Neil Bradley, Executive vice president and chief policy officer (U.S. Chamber of Commerce)

What’s next

The lower courts will need to ensure a seamless process to refund the tariffs to U.S. importers, which could take a significant amount of time to work through.

The takeaway

The Supreme Court's decision to limit the president's ability to unilaterally impose tariffs is a win for businesses, but the path forward remains uncertain. Companies will need to continue adapting to the changing trade landscape, navigating ambiguity, and finding creative ways to manage costs and supply chain disruptions.