Small businesses face their own affordability crunch because of tariffs and health insurance costs

TL;DR

Small business owners cite higher tariffs, health insurance costs, and energy prices as major drivers of their affordability crisis.
Rising operational expenses make it challenging to offer employee raises and health insurance.
U.S. importers face the highest average effective tariff rate since the 1930s.
Enhanced tax credits for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act are set to expire at the end of 2025, potentially increasing premiums significantly.
Small businesses are concerned about losing employees to larger competitors due to an inability to match benefits.
Companies are facing substantial increases in tariff payments, forcing them to consider price hikes.
Uncertainty surrounding tariff rates and their legality adds to the financial strain on small businesses.

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