Nevada treasurer sends $2.1 billion payment request to President Trump after tariff ruling

A landmark decision handed down by the Supreme Court on Friday ruled President Trump is not authorized to impose tariffs.

The high court’s 6-3 decision found that the Constitution allows Congress the power to impose taxes and duties.

Here in northern Nevada, shoppers leaving the Reno Costco were glad to hear their grocery bill could be coming down soon.

“I’ve definitely seen an increase of price over the last year, so I’m looking forward to hopefully seeing something that’s more reasonable,” said Reno resident Jeffrey Saker.

“I was very happy that the Supreme Court would stand up to Trump and his tyranny,” said Reno resident Cliff Young.

Prior to Friday’s ruling, the federal government collected more than $130 billion in tariff revenue. So, what happens to that money now?

Nevada Treasurer Zach Conine wants those dollars back in your pocket. He sent the Trump administration a $2.1 billion bill, accounting for the roughly 1.2 million Silver State households.

Data from the minority membership of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee shows the Trump administration’s tariff actions have cost American consumers $231 billion, roughly coming out to $1,744 per household.

Bruce Parks, Chairman of the Washoe County Republican Party, said he wasn’t surprised by the court’s ruling, but has other ideas for what the government should do with that money.

“Use every penny of that to pay down our national debt,” Parks said.