The chief economist at the Long Island Association’s Research Institute spoke to News 12 about the local impact of tariffs.

Dr. Steven Kent says the policy change will force small business owners to make difficult decisions.

“Let’s say six months ago, you negotiated with your contractor for some fee to add an addition to your home – what does he do now?...His cost of goods just went up by $3,000,” he said.

Kent also expressed concern that some small businesses owners and developers will essentially pause operations to see if the tariffs stick or if the Trump administration changes course.