The U.S.Department of Justice under the Trump administration is engaged in a legal battle to prevent a senior customs official from testifying in court regarding the handling of approximately $166 billion in tariff refunds.The dispute centers on a federal judge’s order requiring Rodney S.Scott, the commissioner of U.S.Customs and Border Protection, to appear in person and explain delays and inconsistencies in distributing refunds owed to importers.

The case stems from allegations that illegally collected tariffs have not been properly returned to affected businesses, some of which may receive only partial repayment or face significant delays.Federal Judge Richard K.Eaton ordered Scott’s testimony after expressing frustration with the government’s lack of transparency and compliance regarding the refund process.The judge’s insistence on live testimony signaled skepticism about the administration’s explanations.

In response, Justice Department attorneys filed an emergency appeal seeking to block Scott from appearing, arguing instead that another official could provide the required information.The government’s legal filings suggested it may escalate the matter to the Supreme Court if necessary.

The judge rejected attempts to block the testimony and scheduled Scott to appear at a June 9 hearing, further intensifying the confrontation between the court and the administration.

At the same time, the Justice Department also challenged the underlying refund order itself, a move that could significantly delay payments to importers.

Representatives for small businesses involved in the case argue that the withheld funds belong to companies that paid the tariffs and that delays are causing serious financial strain.

The ongoing legal fight highlights broader tensions between the executive branch and the judiciary over trade enforcement and the handling of large-scale tariff collections and refunds.