California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that a judge has granted the state’s request for dismissal to pursue an appeal in its case challenging tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration. The decision follows a recent hearing where California opposed the transfer of the case to the Court of International Trade. Instead, California sought dismissal to allow for appellate review on the appropriate jurisdiction for the case. This ruling permits California to maintain the lawsuit within state boundaries and proceed with an appeal to the Ninth Circuit.
“Today, our lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s disastrous and illegal tariffs was allowed to remain in California pending our incoming appeal. We strongly believe this case belongs in federal district court and are pleased the court considered our wishes in dismissing this case so we have the opportunity to seek review,” stated Attorney General Bonta. “Our argument is straightforward: Trump doesn’t have the authority to impose these destructive tariffs — the International Emergency Economic Powers Act simply does not authorize tariffs,” he added. “We remain confident in the strength of our case and look forward to continuing to fight for California’s vibrant economy, businesses, workers, and families.”
The legal action began on April 16 when Attorney General Bonta and Governor Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit against President Trump’s tariff measures, arguing they were implemented without congressional approval. Additionally, they submitted an amicus brief supporting Oregon v. Trump in another challenge against these tariffs at the Court of International Trade. The contested tariffs could cost California consumers $25 billion and lead to over 64,000 job losses. Nationwide impacts from these tariffs are estimated at approximately $40 billion affecting households.
A copy of the order is available online.
