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The SCOTUS Ruling: A Shift in the Tariff Landscape and What Lies Ahead Understanding the Rejection of Emergency Powers and the President’s Next Move In a landmark decision that sent ripples through Wall Street, the Supreme Court has officially struck down the use of emergency powers to impose global tariffs. While the markets responded with a 200-point surge in the Dow , the legal battle over international trade is far from finished. Feb 20, 2026 Fox 5 New York Host: Antwan Lewis Following the ruling, the administration has already signaled its intent to bypass the court’s decision by utilizing alternative federal statutes. Here is a breakdown of the ruling and the new "avenues" currently being explored. The Constitutional Conflict: Congress vs. The President The Supreme Court ruled that the administration violated federal law by claiming emergency powers under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)  to bypass Congress. The justices emphasized that the Constitution clearly grants the power to impose taxes and tariffs to Congress, not the executive branch. "The justices in the majority found that the Constitution very clearly gives Congress the power to impose taxes."  — Antwan Lewis Alternative Avenues: Section 232 and Section 301 Despite the ruling, the administration argues that other statutes—specifically Section 232  and Section 301 —provide the necessary authority to keep tariffs in place or even expand them. Section 232 (Trade Expansion Act of 1962):  Used to justify tariffs based on national security concerns, potentially allowing for an across-the-board 10% tariff on goods. Section 301 (Trade Act of 1974):  Allows for investigations into "unfair trade practices," which can lead to targeted tariffs after a formal request and investigation. Market Reaction and Global Implications While traders initially cheered the SCOTUS decision, the promise of new tariffs has introduced a fresh layer of uncertainty for US trade partners and manufacturers. The administration remains firm that these actions are necessary to address trade imbalances and international drug trafficking, regardless of the court's recent holding. "The decision might not substantially constrain a president's ability to order tariffs going forward... numerous other federal statutes authorize the president to impose tariffs."  — Donald Trump The Presidential Trade Arsenal: A Comparative Look As the administration moves away from the now-invalidated IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act), they are turning to more structured—but still potent—statutory "hammers." Authority Legal Trigger Implementation Speed Duration & Limits Section 122 "Large and serious" balance-of-payments deficits. Immediate.  No investigation required. Capped at 15%  for 150 days  (unless extended by Congress). Section 232 Imports that "threaten to impair" national security . Slow.  Requires 270-day Commerce Dept. investigation. No limit  on tariff rate or duration once implemented. Section 301 "Unjustifiable or unreasonable" unfair trade practices . Slow.  Requires 12–18 month USTR investigation. No limit  on tariff rate; must be reviewed every 4 years. Navigate the Evolving Trade Climate with Schulz Trade Law The rules of the game are changing rapidly. Whether you are seeking a refund from the struck-down IEEPA tariffs or preparing for upcoming Section 301 investigations, you need a legal partner who understands the nuance of executive authority. Is your supply chain protected against the next wave of tariffs?   Contact Schulz Trade Law  today for a compliance audit and strategic consultation Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

The SCOTUS Tariff Ruling: Why the Battle for Free Trade is Just Beginning How the Administration is Pivoting to New Statutes After a Major Legal Defeat The U.S. Supreme Court has delivered a significant blow to executive overreach in international trade. By striking down global tariffs imposed under emergency powers, the Court has reasserted that the power to tax remains with Congress . However, as the Dow surges 200 points in response to the news, a new era of trade uncertainty is already unfolding. International trade attorney Michelle Schulz joined KNX Radio and Fox 5 New York to explain why importers should temper their celebrations with strategic preparation. Feb 20, 2026 KNX Radio Los Angeles The Constitutional Rejection of IEEPA The nation’s highest court ruled that the administration broke federal laws by claiming emergency powers under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) . The ruling clarified that the President cannot unilaterally levy reciprocal taxes on nearly every trading partner without Congressional approval. "The justices in the majority found that the Constitution very clearly gives Congress the power to impose taxes."  — Antwan Lewis, Reporting on the SCOTUS Decision The New Arsenal: Section 232 and Section 301 Despite the ruling, the administration is vowing to use "other avenues" to keep tariffs in place. This includes a pivot to alternative federal statutes that do not require an emergency declaration but still allow for significant trade barriers: Section 232 (Trade Expansion Act of 1962):  Used to justify an across-the-board 10% tariff on goods based on national security. Section 301 (Trade Act of 1974):  Allows for investigations into "unfair trade practices," which could lead to additional, targeted tariffs. "The President can legally impose tariffs under different laws even if businesses would rather not see that happen."  — Michelle Schulz Importer Frustration and the "Complex" Path to Refunds While the SCOTUS decision offers hope for reclaiming past payments, Michelle Schulz warns that the refund process for IEEPA-related tariffs will be "complex and nuanced". Many importers remain frustrated, as they continue to face penalties for non-payment while navigating a system that may soon be hit with a fresh wave of secondary tariffs. "There may be refunds available on these IEEPA tariffs, but importers should keep in mind that that could take a very long time."  — Michelle Schulz Is Your Business Prepared for the Next Wave? The "emergency" may be over, but the era of high tariffs is simply changing shape. Whether you are seeking a refund for previous IEEPA payments or need to prepare for upcoming Section 301 investigations, expert legal counsel is essential. Schulz Trade Law  is currently assisting clients in navigating these new statutory hurdles. Contact us today. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

New Tariffs and Refund Chaos: What Businesses Need to Know After the Supreme Court Ruling Navigating the shift from invalidated duties to Section 122 enforcement and the long road to recovery. Overview: The trade landscape shifted dramatically this morning following a landmark Supreme Court decision that invalidated a significant round of tariffs. While many U.S. businesses are celebrating the prospect of recovering billions in duties, the celebration may be short-lived. The administration has already signaled a pivot to new trade enforcement measures, and the path to securing refunds promises to be a complex, uphill battle. Feb 20, 2026 Fox 26 / KRIV TV Houston Host: Tom Zizka Here is a breakdown of what this ruling means for your bottom line and how the government plans to maintain its tariff strategy. The Multi-Billion Dollar Refund Reality The Supreme Court’s decision has invalidated tariffs that accounted for anywhere from $130 billion to $200 billion in collected revenue. While these specific tariffs "go away" as of today, businesses should not expect a windfall overnight. The process for claiming these refunds has been on hold pending this decision, and the sheer volume of anticipated claims is expected to create a massive administrative backlog. For businesses in high-volume sectors like Houston’s oil and gas industry, the wait for capital to return to their accounts could be extensive. The Section 122 "Backup Plan" The administration was prepared for this ruling. Almost immediately following the decision, the President responded by invoking new tariffs under different sections of trade law— specifically Section 122 . This provision serves as a strategic bridge. It allows the administration to keep tariffs in place for 150 days (roughly 5 months). This window provides the government enough time to conduct necessary investigations and transition the tariffs into other long-term provisions of the trade code. Essentially, while the legal justification has changed, the financial burden on importers remains largely the same. Anticipating a Chaotic Recovery Process Trade experts warn that the transition between tariff regimes will be far from seamless. As the new executive order takes effect within three days, businesses relying on foreign goods will find themselves writing checks for new tariffs even as they struggle to claw back the old ones. Michelle Schulz of Schulz Trade Law emphasizes that the complexity of the refund process cannot be understated. Drawing on her experience with complex trade mechanisms, she notes: "My experience with refunds, for example in duty drawback which is often used in oil and gas in Houston, is that it can take months if not years to get your refund. There will be so many refund requests; I anticipate it's going to be a bit chaotic." Furthermore, Schulz warns that while Section 122 is a temporary measure, the legal framework allows for a much longer game: "This is temporary, but there are other much longer-term provisions under which [the President] can continue tariffs. This could drag out for a very long time." Protect Your Interests Today With hundreds of billions of dollars at stake and a "chaotic" refund process on the horizon, businesses cannot afford to take a passive approach. Navigating the intersection of Section 122 investigations and refund claims requires aggressive legal oversight. Contact Schulz Trade Law today to ensure your claims are filed correctly and your business is prepared for the next round of trade enforcement. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

Billions in Potential Tariff Refunds Following Landmark SCOTUS Ruling DALLAS, TX  — Following a monumental Supreme Court decision that has sent shockwaves through the global trade community, Michelle Schulz , founder of Schulz Trade Law, appeared on Fox 4 to provide critical guidance for U.S. importers. Feb 20, 2026 KDFW-TV/Fox 4 Dallas-Fort Worth Host: Shaun Rabb The ruling, which voided significant portions of the administration’s sweeping tariff policies, has opened the door to potential refunds of  $133 billion to $175 billion . However, as Schulz warned viewers, the road to recovery is paved with regulatory hurdles. "Dot Your I’s and Cross Your T’s" During the segment, Schulz emphasized that the federal government will not simply issue checks to every business that paid the now-voided duties. Instead, the burden of proof rests on the companies to navigate a complex, technical protest process. "They need to make sure they understand import compliance and that they understand how their duties are calculated,"  Schulz told Fox 4. "It's very important to dot your i's and cross your t's in this situation where you're asking for money back." Why Precision is Non-Negotiable For many businesses, these tariffs—often ranging from 10% to 25%—have significantly impacted bottom lines and consumer prices. Reclaiming that capital requires a three-pronged approach: Rigorous Audit:  Verifying every HTS code and duty calculation. Compliance Verification:  Ensuring past import records meet federal standards to prevent secondary audits. Strategic Filing:  Navigating the specialized Court of International Trade to ensure claims are prioritized. Is Your Business Eligible for a Refund? Don't let administrative complexity prevent your company from recovering unlawfully collected duties. The window to file protests is limited. Contact Schulz Trade Law today  for a comprehensive evaluation of your tariff exposure and recovery options. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

Navigating the Post-Trump Tariff Refund Landscape: Expert Advice from Michelle Schulz Dallas Trade Law Expert Explains How Companies Can Secure Refunds on Unconstitutional Duties Overview:   The international trade world recently experienced a seismic shift. With the Supreme Court deeming significant portions of the Trump administration’s tariff policies void, thousands of U.S. companies may now be eligible for substantial refunds. However, reclaiming those tariff refunds isn't as simple as sending an invoice to the government. Feb 20, 2026 Your Money Now Compass Networks Host: Dan Loney In a recent interview on Your Money Now , Michelle Schulz , founder of Schulz Trade Law  and a leading expert in international trade litigation, laid out the roadmap for businesses looking to recover their duty payments. The Path to Recovery: Precision and Compliance As Schulz points out, the burden of proof rests entirely on the importer. When the stakes involve federal refunds, the government’s scrutiny is at an all-time high. "It's very important to dot your i's and cross your t's in this situation where you're asking for money back," Schulz noted. To successfully navigate this process, Schulz identifies two critical pillars for any recovery strategy: Deep-Dive Import Compliance:  Before filing a claim, companies must ensure their entire import history is beyond reproach. Any existing compliance gaps could not only jeopardize a refund but potentially trigger an unwanted audit. Granular Duty Calculation:  Understanding exactly how your duties were calculated—and where the specific voided policies applied—is essential. Accuracy in these technical calculations is the difference between a successful claim and a rejected one. Don't Leave Money on the Table The complexity of trade law means that many companies may not even realize the full extent of the refunds they are owed. The transition from policy to litigation to actual recovery requires a meticulous, legally-sound approach. Take Action: Secure Your Trade Audit Today Is your business positioned to recover its miscalculated duties? Don't let administrative complexity stand between your company and its rightful capital. Contact Schulz Trade Law  to schedule a comprehensive tariff recovery consultation. Our team of experts will help you audit your compliance, recalculate your duties, and ensure every "i" is dotted and every "t" is crossed. Schedule your consultation and protect your bottom line.

Updates on (Automation) Updates: CBP Electronic Refunds and Electronically Submitted VSDs Ashlyn Koenig Smith, Schulz Trade Law PLLC updated: Feb 20, 2026 Download this Article In the fast-paced world of International Trade, companies must stay informed about the latest updates to the multitude of rules and regulations to avoid delays, fines, and penalties that hinder business. This article will cover recent changes to automation concerning U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) new electronic refund process, and Voluntary Self-Disclosures (VSDs). It will highlight what you need to know about these changes and who needs to take action to keep your business up to date. Schulz Trade Law offers a library of Trade Law Resources.   Electronic Refunds Update On February 20th, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that President Trump could not use emergency powers to impose tariffs. This could lead to substantial refunds on tariffs paid since President Trump dubbed “Liberation Day.” While the refund process may be lengthy, CBP’s recent update on electronic refunds is meant to make it smoother. Beginning February 6th, 2026, CBP will issue all refunds electronically via Automated Clearing House (ACH). [1] You must ensure you are enrolled in the Electronic Refund system, as it is now up-and-running. If you currently receive ACH refunds: You don’t have to reenroll, but you should double-check that your information is accurate. If you don’t already receive electronic refunds via ACH: You must register for an Automated Commercial Environment Secure Data Portal (ACE Portal) to receive electronic refunds. Click here  for further information. If you don’t have a CBP Form 5106 on file, you must submit a CBP Form 5106 or have a customs broker submit an electronic CBP Form 5106. If you have a CBP Form 5106 on file, you must submit the modernized application webform. If you have a current CBP Form 4811 on file that authorizes a broker to receive refunds: You should ensure that the “4811 notify party” permits the broker to receive ACH refunds. Effective February 6, 2026. If you need to add or modify a notify party , use the recently updated CBP Form 4811 . The previous version of the form is no longer accepted. You can find the new form here  by searching for the form number. CBP also notes that the bank you direct your refunds to must be able to process FedACH payments. For more information about electronic refunds, visit  here .   Voluntary Self-Disclosures (VSDs) Updates On February 6, 2026, the Office of Foreign Assets Control ( OFAC ) launched a new portal for VSDs that is up and running. [2] To view the OFAC's new portal and learn more, visit this website . Additionally, since January, 2024, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has encouraged VSDs pertaining to violations of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to be submitted via email. [3]  This process differs from the online portal SNAP-R, which only handles export and import licensing pertaining to commodities, software, technology, and activities subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 15 C.F.R. parts 730-774. While neither agency requires electronic submission of VSDs, they are highly encouraged over paper submission as they streamline the entire process, making it easier for their users. In short, CBP's recent switch to electronic refunds and automation updates to VSDs is meant to ease the trading process. However, businesses must stay up-to-date about such changes for maximum efficiency. Ready to update your compliance strategies with the latest CBP automation changes? For further assistance in navigating the vast complexities of international trade law, contact  expert attorneys at Schulz Trade Law . [1]  U.S Customs and Border Protection, 91 FR 21, (2025). [2]  U.S Department of the Treasury, Launch of Voluntary Self-Disclosure Portal,  (2026), https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USTREAS/bulletinsthe/4082377 . [3]  U.S. Department of Commerce, Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement, Memorandum for All Export Enforcement Officials , Washington D.C., (2024). Resource Library Learn more about Trade Law. We have a series of articles highlighting the key components of international trade and compliance. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

SCOTUS Strikes Down Global Tariffs: What Importers Need to Know Now Navigating the Path to Refunds in the Wake of the Supreme Court’s Landmark Decision The landscape of international trade shifted dramatically this past Friday. In a long-awaited ruling, the Supreme Court of the United States struck down the majority of President Trump’s global tariffs . While the decision brings a wave of optimism to the trade community, the road to financial recovery is paved with complex administrative hurdles. Feb 20, 2026 This Morning with Gordon Deal Host: Gordon Deal Michelle Schulz , International Trade Attorney and founder of Schulz Trade Law, joined This Morning with Gordon Deal  to break down the ruling and provide a roadmap for businesses seeking to reclaim their funds. Immediate Impact vs. Long-term Recovery While the collection of these tariffs was expected to cease immediately following the Friday ruling, the refund process is far from instantaneous. Schulz warns that while the legal victory is significant, the logistics of returning capital to businesses will be "a bit of a chaotic process". "The collection of tariffs should stop immediately. However, refunds are going to be a different story... I think it’s going to be months, if not longer."  — Michelle Schulz The Digital Hurdles of the Automated Commercial Environment Refunds will be processed electronically through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) . For importers, this means technical readiness is just as important as legal standing. Businesses must ensure they are properly registered and that their import data is meticulously organized to facilitate claims. "Importers need to be set up in the electronic system and ready to go with their claims. It’s not always easy from a techie perspective—you have to do your homework there."  — Michelle Schulz Avoiding the "Defensive": Record Keeping and Compliance With Customs currently in a high-enforcement mode, Schulz emphasizes that "getting your ducks in a row" is a matter of survival, not just administration. Customs requires a five-year record-keeping period , and any gaps in documentation could lead to seizures or penalties rather than refunds. "If you are not prepared and if you don’t have five years of import records, you could find yourself on the defensive."  — Michelle Schulz Get Started on Your Refund Claim Today The Supreme Court has opened the door, but it is up to your business to walk through it with the right data and legal strategy. At Schulz Trade Law , we are currently auditing import data for our clients to calculate exact owed amounts and file proper claims. Don't leave your capital in the government's hands.   Contact Schulz Trade Law today to ensure your records are compliant and your refund claims are filed accurately. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

Greenland, Europe, and the Risk of a Trade War Understanding the Implications of Tariff Threats Michelle Schulz explains why tariff threats tied to Greenland could trigger EU retaliation—and what that means for U.S. companies. In an interview on KLIF Radio in Dallas–Fort Worth, Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law, addressed escalating tensions between the United States and Europe. These tensions have arisen following renewed tariff threats connected to Greenland. The European Union is openly discussing the use of its so-called “economic bazooka.” Michelle outlined how trade disputes are rapidly turning into geopolitical flashpoints. This shift has serious consequences for U.S. businesses, exporters, and global trust. How Greenland Sparked a New Trade Flashpoint The latest controversy stems from proposed U.S. tariffs—reportedly around 10%—on goods from several European countries. This follows their opposition to U.S. control over Greenland. Michelle warned that this rhetoric has significantly escalated tensions. “Yes, I believe it certainly could [lead to a trade war]. We’re hearing from both sides—there’s a lot of tension.” According to Michelle, European officials view the proposed tariffs as punitive and coercive. This has prompted a coordinated response from EU leadership. “This latest round… has really upset the European Union, and we’re seeing officials coming together and trying to find a response.” The EU’s ‘Economic Bazooka’ and Retaliation Risk European leaders have openly discussed deploying their Anti-Coercion Instrument—sometimes referred to as the EU’s economic bazooka. This could authorize retaliatory measures totaling more than $100 billion. “It could be devastating. This would increase tariffs substantially on some of our biggest companies.” Michelle noted that retaliation would likely target emblematic U.S. industries and products. “Things like Boeing… bourbon—things that are typically U.S.—are going to be tariffed.” Unlike traditional tariffs, the EU’s response could extend beyond goods to include services. This makes the potential impact broader and more severe. Why Europe Is Taking Such a Hard Line Michelle explained that European leaders see the Greenland issue as a matter of sovereignty and international law—not negotiation tactics. “There’s no doubt that Greenland is a sovereign nation… there’s no right for one country to take over another country.” She emphasized that European institutions have framed the issue as a collective defense of international norms. “Whether it’s Ukraine, Greenland—anywhere—the European Union will stand together.” This unified stance raises the likelihood of retaliation rather than compromise. The Longer-Term Cost: Lost Trust and Business Flight Beyond immediate tariffs, Michelle warned that the greatest damage may already be occurring behind the scenes. “We’ve already lost their trust. We’re seeing companies leaving the U.S., not wanting to do business with us.” Even if tariff threats are later withdrawn, rebuilding credibility with European partners could take years. Companies may seek more stable jurisdictions for long-term investment. Strategic Planning for U.S. Businesses For importers, exporters, and multinational companies, the Greenland episode signals a new level of trade risk. Tariffs may be imposed rapidly, tied to political objectives, and met with coordinated international retaliation. Trade planning now requires not only legal compliance but also geopolitical awareness. Companies must stay informed about global developments. Understanding the implications of international relations is crucial for navigating this complex landscape. Conclusion: Preparing for Uncertainty As tensions rise, U.S. businesses must adapt to a shifting trade environment. The potential for a trade war over Greenland highlights the need for vigilance and strategic foresight. By anticipating challenges and understanding the geopolitical landscape, companies can better prepare for the future. The stakes are high, and the time to act is now. In this evolving scenario, trust and collaboration will be vital. U.S. businesses must strive to maintain strong relationships with their European counterparts. Only then can they hope to weather the storm of potential trade conflicts. The phrase "trade risks" encapsulates the essence of this situation, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning in uncertain times.

Jeans $10 More & Prices Soaring: 2026 Tariffs Crushing Small Biz & Trucking Suppliers Michelle Schulz Reveals How Current Tariffs Are Raising Prices and Challenging Small Businesses and Trucking Supply Chains Overview: In a timely SiriusXM Road Dog Trucking interview on February 17, 2026, Michelle Schulz of Schulz Trade Law in Dallas shares expert analysis on how current U.S. tariffs continue to raise prices on electronics, apparel, steel, aluminum and more. With over 23 years as a leading tariff attorney, Schulz discusses enforcement at the border, shifting rules, inventory headaches for manufacturers supplying the trucking industry, and practical compliance strategies every importer needs now. Feb 17, 2026 Road Dog Trucking SiriusXM Radio Host: Mark Willis Tariffs Driving Up Consumer Prices and Challenging Small Businesses Tariffs are no longer just headline news—they’re hitting wallets and bottom lines hard. Larger brands initially absorbed costs, but now companies like Columbia Sportswear and Levi Strauss are passing increases to consumers, with jeans rising $5–$10 and spring merchandise seeing high-single-digit hikes. Small businesses importing parts and components face the biggest squeeze because they cannot keep absorbing 25–50%+ duties on textiles, steel, aluminum or copper. “I believe the tariffs alone have a dramatic impact on the price of goods today, and I think that Columbia Sportswear is a great example, because they probably absorbed some of the tariffs in the beginning. And it’s been slow rolling, because there were companies that could absorb tariffs in the beginning, whereas the smaller ones usually couldn’t. We’re reaching a point where they’re saying, hey, well, we’re going to have to drive our prices up now, because nothing’s changed.” Expert Guidance on International Trade Compliance and Navigating Changing Rules Every product and every country of origin carries its own tariff rate under IEEPA, Section 232 and other authorities. Customs guidance keeps evolving, often stricter than original executive orders, leaving importers scrambling to classify goods correctly and avoid penalties. Michelle Schulz helps Dallas-area and nationwide companies stay compliant in the Automated Commercial Environment ( ACE ) system amid daily rule changes. “So I do international trade law, and I have done international trade for over 23 years. I help companies that import and export and help them to be compliant with US regulations. It can be very difficult with these tariffs, because there are different interpretations, and what I’m doing right now is helping companies navigate the different interpretations and the enforcement that’s pretty strong right now on those who don’t pay the tariffs correctly.” Border Enforcement, Cargo Holds & Trucking Industry Supply-Chain Impacts Customs is stepping up enforcement at every port of entry. Trucks must file accurate advanced manifest data or risk delays, while held cargo racks up daily storage fees with compound interest. Manufacturers supplying fasteners, fittings and components to freightliner, Volvo and other truck builders face inventory risk when rates change after entry, plus no de-minimis relief on many IEEPA tariffs. “They will hold on to the cargo and charge you storage fees, and those storage fees are subject to compound interest… we have quite a few clients who are in manufacturing and who are dealing with parts and components. And the problem with that is even there’s no de minimis on the IEEPA tariffs.”  If rising tariffs, border delays or compliance questions are affecting your imports, exports or trucking supply chain, get expert help today. Visit SchulzTradeLaw.com to download free resources and schedule a consultation . Protect your business—don’t navigate 2026 tariffs alone. Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

Europe, Retaliation, and the Supreme Court Why Tariff Uncertainty Isn’t Going Away Michelle Schulz explains why a Supreme Court ruling won’t end tariffs—and what escalating trade tensions mean for consumers. In an interview on WBAP Radio in Dallas–Fort Worth, Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law, discussed the growing complexity of U.S. tariff policy as the Supreme Court weighs the president’s authority to impose global tariffs. With potential new tariffs on European goods and retaliatory measures already being discussed abroad, Michelle outlined why consumers and businesses should prepare for continued volatility—regardless of how the Court rules. January 19, 2026 Morning News WBAP Radio, Fort Worth, TX What the Supreme Court Is Deciding —and What It Isn’t At the center of the case before the Supreme Court of the United States are the so-called Liberation Day  tariffs—baseline tariffs applied broadly under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). “The Supreme Court has only been asked to decide on… these tariffs that are under the Emergency Economic Powers Act.” Michelle emphasized that the Court is not  ruling on every tariff currently in place. Even if the IEEPA tariffs are struck down, many others will remain. “There are other tariffs, though, that may still apply… like the steel and aluminum tariffs or the ones specific to copper and furniture.” Why a Tariff Is Not Just ‘a Tariff’ While tariffs may seem interchangeable, Michelle explained that they are imposed under very different legal authorities—each with its own rules and vulnerabilities. “That’s what you would think, right? A tariff’s a tariff—but they’re using all these different mechanisms.” Some tariffs are justified under national security statutes, others under unfair trade practice laws, and still others—like the IEEPA tariffs—under emergency powers. This layered approach means that even a loss at the Supreme Court would not eliminate tariffs as a policy tool. “Even if the IEEPA tariffs are shot down, we still will see the administration using backup plans.”  Europe, Retaliation, and the Consumer Impact Michelle also addressed the administration’s recent suggestion of imposing new tariffs on European goods—potentially around 10%—and the likely response from the EU. “Now the President is talking about 10% on European products, which would impact everything from cars to luxury goods.” She warned that Europe is already signaling strong retaliation, escalating the risk of a broader trade conflict. “The Europeans are going to fire back with their own… really strong tariff measures.”  For consumers, this means higher prices—especially for imported vehicles, specialty goods, and products sold by small and mid-sized businesses that lack the margin to absorb rising costs. “Small to medium-sized businesses can’t sustain these high taxes on everything they bring into the country.”  What This Means Going Forward Michelle made clear that even a favorable Supreme Court ruling would not bring immediate relief. Refunds could take time, new tariffs may follow under different statutes, and global retaliation could further drive up prices. Tariff policy, she noted, has become faster, more fragmented, and more unpredictable than in the past. Trade policy is no longer driven by economics alone. As tariffs become entwined with geopolitics, executive authority, and unresolved legal challenges, businesses must stay vigilant. Schulz Trade Law helps importers and global companies assess risk, navigate sudden policy shifts, and prepare for rapid changes in the trade landscape. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

Tariffs, Geopolitics, and Greenland When Trade Policy Becomes a Pressure Tool Michelle Schulz weighs in on tariff threats tied to national security claims—and what they signal for global trade. In a KNX Radio news segment out of Los Angeles, Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law, commented on a surprising escalation in tariff rhetoric: the suggestion that the United States could impose tariffs on countries that resist U.S. demands related to Greenland. The remarks come amid continued uncertainty over the Supreme Court’s pending decision on the legality of the president’s global tariffs, highlighting how trade policy is increasingly entangled with geopolitics and executive power. January 12, 2026 KNX Radio Los Angeles, CA Tariffs as a Geopolitical Lever Schulz explained that the president’s comments immediately triggered a diplomatic fallout, prompting lawmakers to intervene to de-escalate tensions. “This statement really caused an uproar on both sides of the aisle.”  According to Michelle, a group of U.S. senators traveled to Copenhagen to calm the situation, but discussions fell short of a resolution. “They agreed to have a working group, but we are still very much at odds.” The episode underscores that tariffs are no longer framed solely as economic tools but are increasingly seen as instruments of foreign policy and leverage. National Security Claims and Legal Fragility The tariff threat was framed around national security, despite the U.S. already maintaining a military presence in Greenland. Michelle noted that this argument closely parallels the broader legal debate currently before the Supreme Court of the United States. “It continues to get pushed out, which makes some people think they may be more likely to rule in the President’s favor.”  However, Michelle cautioned against assuming delay signals approval. “I still think it’s less likely because of the way the laws are written.”  Her remarks reinforce a consistent theme across recent interviews: while tariff authority has expanded in practice, its legal foundation remains vulnerable. What This Signals for Businesses and Trade Partners For importers and multinational companies, the Greenland episode is less about the island itself and more about precedent. If tariffs can be threatened—or imposed—as leverage in unrelated geopolitical disputes, trade risk becomes harder to predict and price. The lack of clarity around both diplomatic outcomes and judicial review amplifies uncertainty, particularly for companies operating across borders or dependent on stable supply chains. Trade policy is no longer driven by economics alone. As tariffs become entwined with geopolitics, executive authority, and unresolved legal challenges, businesses must stay vigilant. Schulz Trade Law helps importers and global companies assess risk, navigate sudden policy shifts, and prepare for rapid changes in the trade landscape. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.

Supreme Court Decision Looms: Billions in Tariff Refunds—and What Happens Next Michelle Schulz explains what’s at stake in the Supreme Court’s pending tariff ruling and how refunds could affect prices. In a follow-up appearance on KXYL Radio , Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law , discussed the Supreme Court’s expected ruling on the president’s global “Liberation Day” tariffs. With baseline tariffs affecting nearly every imported product—and billions of dollars already collected—the Court’s decision could trigger widespread refunds, price shifts, and yet another phase of trade-policy uncertainty. January 12, 2026 KXYL Radio Brownwood/Coleman, TX What’s at Stake in the Supreme Court Ruling At the center of the case are the so-called Liberation Day tariffs—baseline 10% tariffs applied broadly to imports from almost every country. “There is a lot at stake… it looks like billions of dollars at stake here for us importers.”  Michelle explained that if the Supreme Court rules in favor of importers, those who paid these tariffs would be entitled to refunds. Because the tariffs apply so broadly, the financial implications extend across nearly every sector of the economy. The Rush to Be First in Line for Refunds Anticipating a favorable ruling, major importers—including Costco—have already filed lawsuits to protect their position in what could become a massive refund process. “A lot of them are saying, ‘I want a refund, and I want to be first in line.’”  Michelle noted that refunds will likely be processed electronically, requiring companies to have accurate import data ready to submit. Even if refunds are ordered immediately, however, the real-world process may be slow. “The refunds should go into effect immediately, but the implementation will take a while… it could be months, if not years.”  What Refunds Could Mean for Consumers For consumers, the outcome matters because current tariffs are directly inflating retail prices. “We have increased tariffs on pretty much anything you might buy at a store like Costco… increasing prices up to 17% on average.”  If importers receive refunds, Michelle expects price relief to follow—at least for goods affected by the challenged tariffs. “If Costco wins, then I believe they will be bringing their prices back down.”  Why Some Tariffs Will Stay No Matter What Not all tariffs are part of the Supreme Court case. Michelle emphasized that sector-specific tariffs—such as those on steel, aluminum, lumber, furniture, and copper—are imposed under different legal authorities and will remain in place regardless of the ruling. “Those sector-specific tariffs are going to stay in place… they’re under a completely different set of rules.”  Even if the Court strikes down the baseline tariffs, the president retains other statutory tools to impose duties, including national security investigations and unfair trade practice laws. “Yes, the other statutes… will all still be available to the President.”  What Comes Next: Executive Orders and New Investigations Michelle warned that trade policy has become increasingly fluid, with frequent executive orders and agency notices replacing slower, more formal processes. “We’re seeing change all the time, and sometimes it’s not as formal.” She highlighted semiconductors as a key area to watch, noting ongoing investigations and growing U.S. manufacturing investment—particularly in Texas—which could lead to new tariffs under national security frameworks. Whether tariffs are refunded, upheld, or reimposed under new authority, uncertainty remains the defining feature of today’s trade environment. Schulz Trade Law helps importers prepare for refunds, navigate executive-order changes, and ensure tariff compliance in real time. Trade on, but trade informed! Subscribe  to Schulz Trade Law for more updates.