# What the Global Trade Accountability Act Actually Does

Right now, the President can impose tariffs and other trade restrictions on imported goods without getting approval from Congress first. The President has broad power to do this under various existing laws—whether it's for national security, to retaliate against unfair trade practices, or to protect American industries. This bill would change that by requiring Congress to vote and approve most major trade actions before they can take effect.

Here's what would happen in practice: If the President wants to impose new tariffs on steel, restrict imports from a particular country, or create quotas on certain goods, they'd first have to submit a detailed report to Congress explaining what they're doing and why. That report would need to include an analysis of whether the action is actually in America's economic interest and what kind of retaliation other countries might take in response. Congress would then have to pass a joint resolution (essentially a vote of approval) before the tariffs or restrictions could go into effect. The Government Accountability Office would also review the President's reasoning to make sure they're following the law correctly. After any trade action is implemented, the International Trade Commission would report back to Congress within a year on how it actually affected American businesses and consumers.

The bill does include an emergency escape hatch: if the President determines there's a genuine national emergency, imminent threat to health or safety, or a criminal law enforcement need, they can implement the action immediately for 90 days without waiting for Congressional approval—but they have to notify Congress right away. After those 90 days, they'd still need Congress to approve it if they want to keep it in place.

Essentially, this bill shifts power over trade policy from the President alone to Congress and the President together, making trade decisions more transparent and requiring lawmakers to take a public position on whether they support specific tariffs and trade restrictions.

Global Trade Accountability Act of 2023

Davidson, Warren

Global Trade Accountability Act of 2023 This bill requires congressional approval of certain unilateral trade actions (i.e., restrictions on the importation of an article). Such actions may take effect without congressional approval for one 90-day period if the President <ul> <li>determines that it is necessary because of a national emergency, because of an imminent threat to health or safety, for the enforcement of criminal laws, or for national security; and</li> <li>submits written notice of the determination to Congress.</li> </ul> The U.S. International Trade Commission must report on the effects on the U.S. economy of any unilateral trade action taken pursuant to this bill.