Kirton McConkie attorneys Clifford Blair, Theo Smith, and Daniel Young recently organized a virtual CLE presentation for the Utah State Bar’s International Law Section titled “Trump’s Tariffs Trumped? Lessons from the Trenches of Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump.” The event featured Matthew Nicely, a nationally recognized international trade attorney.
Nicely represents Learning Resources, Inc. and other plaintiffs in litigation challenging the Trump Administration’s imposition of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The case is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court and raises significant questions about the scope of executive authority, constitutional limitations on taxation, and the statutory boundaries of national economic emergency powers.
Blair, Smith, and Young coordinated the event on behalf of the International Law Section, bringing Nicely to speak about the complexities of the ongoing litigation. During the CLE, Nicely gave attendees a detailed, insider look at:
- The constitutional framework governing tariffs and taxation, including the respective roles of Congress and the Executive Branch.
- Potential jurisdictional issues implicated in IEEPA tariff challenges.
- Arguments recently presented to the U.S. Supreme Court, informed by firsthand experience from the litigation team.
- The practical and policy implications of the Court’s potential rulings for trade law, administrative authority, and future executive action.
The event was offered at no cost to International Law Section members and qualified each for one hour of regular CLE credit.
Kirton McConkie’s international business, trade, and regulatory attorneys assist clients navigating cross-border strategy, federal trade regulations, and complex international disputes. Our team remains actively engaged in supporting the Utah legal community through CLE programming and leadership within the Utah State Bar.