Attorney General Jay Jones called on Congress on Mar. 19 to pass legislation that would require the federal government to provide swift refunds to consumers and businesses affected by tariffs imposed under the Trump administration. Jones joined a coalition of 16 other attorneys general in this effort, following a Supreme Court ruling on Feb. 20 that struck down tariffs enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
The issue is significant because over $166 billion was collected from more than 330,000 American businesses and individuals through these tariffs, which were later deemed illegal. The coalition seeks legislation that would ensure importers are reimbursed with interest and that businesses passing tariff costs onto consumers also return those funds.
“Donald Trump continues to exercise power that does not belong to him while Virginians are expected to foot the bill – to the tune of $1,700 per family – and keep our mouths shut. No more,” said Attorney General Jones. “Virginia’s farmers, families, and businesses are carrying the heaviest burden of these illegal tariffs. The Port of Virginia continues to see slowdowns in import and export containers. Virginians shouldn’t have to pay the exorbitant price tag of Donald Trump’s trade tantrums. We urge Congress to take swift action and return to the people what is rightfully theirs.”
Jones noted that Virginia farmers have seen operating costs rise by as much as 25 percent, while small businesses in Virginia have paid over $1.4 billion in tariffs so far. The letter sent by Jones and his colleagues urges Congress to create an automatic refund process for all affected importers, citing concerns about delays or barriers if importers must apply or sue for refunds through U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s new direct deposit platform.
The coalition also calls for accountability among businesses that passed tariff costs onto consumers, recommending that any refunds received be shared with those who ultimately bore the financial burden. They highlight how prices for less expensive goods rose faster than those for costlier items due to the tariffs, disproportionately affecting low-income consumers.
The Attorney General of Virginia supports civil rights enforcement and victim assistance programs according to its official website. The office provides legal counsel and representation to state agencies while promoting public safety and defending constitutional rights as detailed online. Miyares holds the position as the 48th Attorney General of Virginia according to official records, serving all residents across the Commonwealth as reported by the office. The office addresses issues such as human trafficking and domestic violence through legal advocacy according to its website and offers consumer protection resources including identity theft prevention and fraud reporting services as noted online.
Joining Jones in sending this letter were attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Vermont.
