California Attorney General Rob Bonta held a roundtable discussion in Los Angeles to address the impact of tariffs imposed by former President Trump on various industries in California. This event follows a lawsuit filed by California against the Trump Administration, challenging its use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 to impose these tariffs.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized the significant disruption caused by the tariffs, stating, “President Trump’s destructive and unpredictable tariff regime has sent shockwaves through financial markets, businesses, and consumers in every corner of the globe — and especially here in California.” He noted that these tariffs are projected to shrink the U.S. economy by $178 billion and cost California consumers $25 billion, potentially resulting in over 64,000 job losses across the state.
Henry Rogers from the Harbor Association of Industry & Commerce highlighted how “erratic tariff policies have created unprecedented uncertainty for harbor businesses,” impacting their ability to plan shipments or investments. Nella McOsker from Central City Association pointed out that “tariff increases are straining essential drivers of the LA economy,” affecting sectors like construction and manufacturing.
Maria S. Salinas from the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce remarked on how tariffs particularly affect small businesses: “Tariffs create real-life consequences for businesses across Los Angeles, especially small businesses that often can’t absorb sudden costs or supply chain disruptions.”
The ongoing legal challenge seeks to halt what California argues is an unlawful imposition of tariffs without Congressional consent. In April, Attorney General Bonta and Governor Newsom filed a lawsuit against these actions. A motion for a preliminary injunction was also filed with hopes to stop enforcement while litigation proceeds.
More information about this legal action is available online.
