United States Reciprocal Trade Act

This bill lets the President respond when another country taxes a U.S. product more than we tax theirs, or uses other trade rules that make it hard to sell our goods. The President could try to negotiate lower barriers or add a matching tax (tariff) on that country’s goods coming into the U.S. The bill says many trading partners do this, which hurts U.S. producers, farmers, and workers.

Before a tariff increase takes effect, the President must give at least 30 days’ public notice, allow comments, and seek advice; the President must also consult key congressional committees. Any increase can be set lower or raised to match the other country’s moves, but it must end if that country removes its higher rates or barriers, or if keeping it is not in the U.S. economic or public interest. Congress can cancel a tariff increase by passing a joint resolution, which requires a two‑thirds vote. This authority lasts three years and can be extended for three more if the President asks and Congress does not block it; before any trade deal is entered, the trade office must report expected effects on businesses and consumers.

• Who is affected: U.S. producers, farmers, and workers; companies that buy or sell goods across borders; and U.S. consumers considered in required impact reviews.
• What changes: The President may negotiate for lower foreign barriers or add matching tariffs on specific goods; increases must be publicly noticed and can be adjusted or ended based on conditions; Congress can vote to cancel an increase.
• When: At least 30 days’ public notice before a tariff increase; authority lasts 3 years and may be extended 3 more years unless Congress disapproves.