California has become the first U.S. state to sue the federal government over tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, challenging his use of emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

Axar.az reports that Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the lawsuit at an almond farm, emphasizing how the state's agriculture and manufacturing sectors have been disproportionately impacted.

The White House dismissed the lawsuit, defending the tariffs as a necessary response to trade imbalances and a “national emergency.” Newsom countered that Trump’s use of emergency powers for tariffs is unprecedented and unconstitutional, citing Supreme Court rulings limiting presidential authority.

California, the world’s fifth-largest economy and leading U.S. producer of several crops, has already filed 15 lawsuits against Trump since January. While California is the first state to challenge the tariffs, other lawsuits from small businesses and civil rights groups have also questioned Trump’s legal authority.

Trump argues the tariffs will boost American industry and reduce trade deficits, but critics warn they could harm the economy and that reshoring manufacturing is a long-term process.