US Businesses Face Litigation to Recover $134 Billion After Tariff Ruling

Following a Supreme Court ruling on February 20, 2026, approximately 300,000 U.S. businesses face a complex legal battle to recover $134 billion in duties. The Court determined President Donald Trump overstepped his authority in imposing tariffs in 2025 but did not outline a refund mechanism. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the agency has sufficient cash but warned the process could extend over a year and called potential payouts a "corporate boondoggle." Trade attorneys expect importers to file individual lawsuits at the Court of International Trade, citing historical precedents where refunds took years. Consumers will likely not receive reimbursements.