Joint resolution urging President Trump to refrain from imposing tariffs on goods and services imported from Canada
J.R.H.2 is a joint resolution expressing the Vermont General Assembly’s opposition to proposed U.S. tariffs on goods and services imported from Canada. The resolution recites the long-standing military, diplomatic, and economic relationship between the two countries, emphasizing the scale of cross-border trade, the integration of supply chains, and Vermont’s especially close ties to Canada through exports, imports, energy supply, tourism, and cross-border travel. It also notes the potential for retaliatory Canadian measures and the economic uncertainty created by announced tariff plans.
The resolution specifically urges President Donald J. Trump to refrain from imposing tariffs on Canadian goods and services, and it directs the Secretary of State to transmit copies to federal, state, and Canadian leaders. It is a nonbinding expression of legislative sentiment rather than a change to Vermont statutory law, but it is intended to signal Vermont’s economic interest in preserving stable trade relations with Canada and avoiding disruptions to businesses, consumers, and energy markets in the state.
This resolution does not amend Vermont statutes, create regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is limited to a formal statement of the General Assembly’s position and a request that the President not impose tariffs on Canadian imports. Practically, it seeks to influence federal trade policy and highlight the potential consequences for Vermont industries, consumers, and energy providers that depend on cross-border commerce with Canada.
The overall sentiment is strongly supportive of Canada-Vermont trade and opposed to tariffs. The resolution frames the proposed tariffs as harmful, disruptive, and potentially costly, while praising the Governor’s efforts to prepare for possible impacts and emphasizing the value of the bilateral relationship. The tone is precautionary but clearly favors avoiding tariff escalation and preserving existing economic ties.
The main point of contention is the proposed federal tariff policy itself, especially the possibility of a 25 percent tariff on most Canadian goods and a 10 percent tariff on Canadian energy products and services. Supporters of the resolution view these measures as threatening integrated supply chains, Vermont jobs, consumer prices, and energy costs. The resolution also implicitly contrasts Vermont’s pro-trade stance with the federal administration’s tariff approach, but no opposing arguments or recorded committee debate are included in the provided materials.