CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE— 2025–2026 REGULAR SESSION

99

Introduced by Assembly Member Gipson

June 9, 2025

Relative to tariffs.

Fiscal committee: no

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL’S DIGEST

This measure would call upon relevant federal agencies to consider the ramifications of tariff policies on California ports and to work collaboratively toward strategies that stabilize trade and bolster the competitiveness of California port infrastructure.

WHEREAS, Ports serve as critical infrastructure for trade and commerce, acting as vital gateways for the import and export of goods; and

WHEREAS, The recent imposition and fluctuation of tariffs has led to significant disruptions in trade patterns, affecting the flow of goods through California ports; and

WHEREAS, These tariffs have resulted in increased costs for both importers and exporters, leading to a reduced volume of trade that negatively impacts port operations; and

WHEREAS, Ports are experiencing longer turnaround times due to the uncertainty surrounding tariffs, leading to logistical bottlenecks and increased costs for shipping companies and consumers alike; and

WHEREAS, The economic implications of tariffs extend beyond port operations, affecting broader regional economies reliant on trade, transportation, and logistics industries; and

WHEREAS, Ports are facing challenges related to workforce stability, as uncertainty in tariff regulations may lead to reduced hours or layoffs in port-related jobs, thus impacting families and communities; and

WHEREAS, The infrastructure at many ports must be enhanced and adapted to remain competitive, but the financial strain imposed by tariffs hampers the needed investments; and

WHEREAS, The anticipated continuation of tariff disputes poses risks to future trade agreements, further complicating planning and forecasting for port authorities and stakeholders; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California, jointly, That the Legislature calls upon relevant federal agencies to consider the ramifications of tariff policies on California ports and to work collaboratively toward strategies that stabilize trade and bolster the competitiveness of California port infrastructure; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to relevant federal agencies, port authorities, trade associations, and other stakeholders to assist in advocacy for the needs of our ports and in promoting policies that will mitigate the adverse effects of tariffs on trade and commerce.