The National Taxpayers Union (NTU) has called on the Department of Commerce to dismiss proposed tariffs or quotas that could raise the cost of medical supplies in the United States. In comments submitted on October 17, NTU warned that such measures might undermine national security, increase healthcare expenses, and hinder economic growth.
Bryan Riley, Director of the Free Trade Initiative at NTU, said that "increased costs would be passed along to patients either directly or through increased health insurance premiums." He added that these tariffs could also impact taxpayers by raising federal healthcare spending, which exceeded $1.7 trillion in fiscal year 2025.
An analysis referenced by NTU suggests that tariffs on medical goods could lead to an additional $63 billion in annual costs across the healthcare sector. This would add to existing financial challenges faced by hospitals and federal health programs.
The Senate Committee on Armed Services has noted in its defense authorization report that defense-related acquisitions should remain free from tariffs or trade restrictions. Riley emphasized the importance of maintaining exemptions for certain foreign materials essential for defense procurement to avoid compromising national security.
As discussions continue over whether protectionist policies are needed to secure U.S. supply chains, NTU argues for removing barriers instead of adding them. Riley remarked, "The pandemic proved that open trade helps Americans get the supplies quickly and affordably," advocating for policies that empower consumers and expand choices rather than imposing taxes on essential medical tools.
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