President Trump’s expanded budget request includes level funding for Perkins CTE State Grants
On May 30, the Trump administration released an expanded budget proposal that requested level funding for Perkins Career and Technical Education State Grants at $1.439 billion. This budget, including the “skinny budget” overview released earlier this year, is usually dead on arrival in Congress. However, many education programs are receiving dramatic cuts, and NRCA was happy to see at least level funding. We are continuing to build on Roofing Day in D.C. advocacy to ensure that number increases in this year’s spending bill, which is due to be finalized in September.
Courts rule on tariffs as administration escalates steel and aluminum duties
On June 3, President Trump doubled tariffs on imported steel and aluminum—from 25% to 50%—under Section 232 of U.S. trade law, which allows action to protect national security. The new rates took effect June 4 for nearly all countries, with the United Kingdom remaining at 25% for now. At the same time, the Commerce Department is expected to speed up additional Section 232 investigations into copper, lumber, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, critical minerals and trucks. These investigations may result in even broader trade restrictions.
On May 28, the U.S. Court of International Trade struck down reciprocal and fentanyl tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The three-judge panel ruled unanimously; however, the Department of Justice appealed the decision, and a federal appeals court has temporarily allowed the tariffs to stay in place. In the filing, the court hinted at a more legally secure route for tariffs: Section 122 of the Trade Act, which allows the president to impose up to 15% in tariffs for 150 days, extendable with congressional approval.
Staying informed and engaged will be essential to navigating the rapidly shifting landscape. During this period of uncertainty, companies should take proactive steps to advance and protect their interests. For example, businesses should understand imports they rely on and their countries of origin; assess a range of potential effects on key suppliers and materials; and monitor the administration’s process for opportunities to provide analysis and data to inform the development of trade policy and potential alternatives.
Supreme Court allows Trump administration’s termination of parole programs to proceed
On May 30, the Supreme Court overturned a lower court ruling that had temporarily blocked the Department of Homeland Security from terminating parole status for an estimated 530,000 individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela. The parole programs were begun in 2022 to provide individuals from these countries with a legal pathway to the U.S. for two years if they could obtain a financial sponsor, enter legally through a port of entry and pass a background check.
The Supreme Court ruling allows the DHS termination of parole programs for these countries (similar programs for Ukraine and Afghanistan are not affected) to proceed, and it takes effect immediately given the effective date of the termination order was April 24. Although the original litigation challenging the DHS termination proceeds, individuals with parole status now will become subject to deportation unless they can obtain alternative legal status, such as applying for asylum, and their work authorization is ended immediately. View more information.
Support ROOFPAC over drinks at NRCA’s Midyear Committee Meetings in Chicago
Join your roofing friends and colleagues for a lively cocktail reception benefiting ROOFPAC on Wednesday, July 16, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Siena Tavern in Chicago. Enjoy catching up with fellow industry professionals over tasty cocktails and Italian treats—all while strengthening the voice of the roofing industry on Capitol Hill ($175 person/$275 per couple). Members of NRCA’s Political Insiders Council and Capitol Hill Club, along with their guests, receive complimentary admission. Special thanks to our sponsor Johns Manville for making this event possible.
For more information or to register, please visit www.nrca.net/roofpac-midyear-event. For any questions or to secure the couples’ rate, contact Teri Dorn at (202) 510-0920 or tdorn@nrca.net.
