On Feb. 20, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that the President’s attempts to use emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was not within his right. “IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs,” written by the supporting justices in the opinion decision. The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) throughout these tariff decisions advocated for the exception of building materials in these trade agreements. They cited affordability and supply chain concerns. The association estimated in 2024, an estimated 7% of all goods used in new residential construction were imported.
“While the Supreme Court’s ruling reins in presidential authority to impose tariffs under IEEPA, President Trump still has wide latitude in setting tariff policy,” said Bill Owens, chairman of the NAHB in an official statement. “With the nation facing a housing affordability crisis, NAHB urges the president to exempt building materials as part of his tariff strategy because they raise construction costs, impede supply chains and result in market and business uncertainty that make it difficult for builders to price their homes. NAHB will continue to work with the administration and Congress to remove regulatory obstacles that hinder the construction of new homes and apartments.”
