Basics

Since March 2018, the Trump and Biden Administrations have used Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose tariffs primarily on steel, aluminum, and their derivatives. Timber and lumber have also been subject to Section 232 tariffs. The expanded use of Section 232 has prompted debate over the economic effects of tariffs, their role in supporting domestic production and national security, their impact on U.S. trading relationships, and the appropriate scope of presidential tariff authority. This Basic provides an overview of the statute and its uses, outlines the economic impact of these tariffs, and examines potential efforts to reduce presidential tariff power.