By Blake Jackson
Governor Kathy Hochul called on the Administration to return an estimated $13.5 billion in tariff costs to New Yorkers after a recent Supreme Court ruling struck down the tariffs.
Citing data from the Yale Budget Lab, the Governor said the average New York household has paid approximately $1,751 in additional expenses since the tariffs were introduced last year, creating a multibillion-dollar burden statewide.
“These senseless and illegal tariffs were just a tax on New York consumers, small businesses and farmers — and that’s why I’m demanding a full refund,” Governor Hochul said. “I’ll never stop fighting for New Yorkers, and that means staying focused on putting more money back in your pockets — not ripping it away.”
Beyond the impact on consumers, Governor Hochul emphasized the strain placed on small businesses and farmers throughout the state. Governor noted that even with the Supreme Court’s decision, many agricultural producers have already absorbed significant financial losses due to increased input costs and market disruptions.
More than 80 percent of agrochemical imports and 70 percent of farm machinery imports originate from countries subject to tariffs of 10 percent or higher, limiting farmers’ ability to find alternative suppliers.
As a result, many farms have faced higher costs for fertilizer and equipment, with some reporting annual increases of up to $20,000. Additionally, milk exports have declined by 7 percent, further tightening margins for dairy producers.
Governor Hochul 2026 State of the State address, proposed $30 million in tariff relief to assist affected farmers. The plan includes direct payments to specialty crop growers, livestock producers, dairy farmers, and aquaculture operations to help offset losses and stabilize farm operations across New York.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: New York, Government & Policy