This bill gives Congress a formal say in major trade decisions made by the President. Right now, the President can impose tariffs, ban imports, or restrict trade pretty much on their own. This bill changes that by requiring the President to get Congressional approval before taking most significant trade actions.

Here's how it would work: Whenever the President wants to impose tariffs, ban imports, tighten quotas, or restrict trade in other major ways, they first have to submit a detailed report to Congress. That report must explain what they're doing, how long it will last, and include an economic analysis showing whether it's actually good for America—looking at things like job impacts, effects on the economy overall, and impacts on government finances. An independent government auditor then has 30 days to review whether the President is following the law correctly.

Congress then gets 45 days to vote on whether to approve the trade action. Both the House and Senate have streamlined procedures to make sure the vote actually happens—committees can't sit on it forever, and there are time limits to keep things moving. If Congress approves it, the action can go forward. If they don't vote to approve it, the President can't implement the trade measure. This essentially flips the current system, where the President acts first and Congress has limited ability to stop them. Under this bill, Congress would have to actively say yes before major trade actions take effect.

Global Trade Accountability Act

Lee, Mike

Global Trade Accountability Act This bill requires congressional approval of any proposed unilateral trade action that has the effect of increasing trade barriers.