FedEx has initiated legal action against the United States government for reimbursement of emergency tariffs that were implemented during Donald Trump's presidency. This lawsuit marks FedEx as the first major American corporation to pursue such legal recourse since the Supreme Court ruled these tariffs illegal, as they were based on a statute from 1977. The lawsuit was filed in the US International Trade Court on Monday, aiming to secure a full refund for all tariffs paid under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

The recent Supreme Court decision represents a significant setback for the White House, ruling that the President lacked the authority to impose these tariffs using emergency powers. The Court's judgment emphasized that such actions require Congressional approval, providing a legal framework that undermines the executive branch's capacity to unilaterally impose economic measures. FedEx's move comes in response to what many view as an overreach of executive power, setting a precedent for other businesses affected by similar tariffs to seek redress.

This lawsuit not only reflects FedEx’s efforts to recover its costs but also highlights a broader discussion about the legality of emergency powers in the context of international trade. As the implications of the Supreme Court's ruling extend beyond FedEx, it may empower other businesses to challenge the government's authority to levy tariffs without legislative backing. The outcome of this case could reshape the landscape of US trade policy and the power dynamics between the executive branch and Congress regarding economic sanctions and tariffs.