Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Survey: As Shutdown Continues, 87% of Small Business Owners Want ACA Tax Credits Made Permanent National survey finds overwhelming support among small businesses for making enhanced ACA tax credits permanent before imminent expiration triggers severe financial strain; 72% say Congress’ healthcare priorities are misaligned with small business needs WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 22, 2025 – Eighty-seven percent of small business owners want Congress to make the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits at the center of the government shutdown debate permanent, according to a new national survey from Small Business for America's Future. Without the credits, 84% are concerned about their ability to afford healthcare, and if premiums spike as projected, more than a third would face severe financial strains threatening their operations while nearly a quarter would be forced to drop employee coverage entirely. The survey of 620 small business owners reveals an affordability crisis that cuts deep for Main Street. Roughly 5 million small business owners rely on ACA marketplaces and could lose coverage when these credits expire. Small business owners make up about 25% of all marketplace enrollees, a disproportionately high share compared to the broader population. ACA marketplace premiums could double in 2026 when the tax credits expire Dec. 31, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. “We’re watching healthcare costs create a two-tiered economy,” said Small Business for America’s Future Co-Chair Walt Rowen, owner of Susquehanna Glass Company in Columbia, Pa. “More than 80% of small business owners say rising healthcare costs put us at a severe disadvantage compared to large corporations that can self-insure. The consequences are brutal. Whether we offer health insurance or help employees access affordable marketplace coverage, when premiums spike, we face the same threat: losing our best employees to companies that can offer better benefits.” “Higher costs are crushing small businesses. From devastating health care cuts to tariff chaos to skyrocketing energy prices, small businesses are struggling to compete, grow, hire, and even survive,” said Senator Markey, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. "Today’s survey results show what we already knew – small businesses need real relief now. We must protect small businesses and employees by reversing the Trump administration’s harmful policies and stop Main Street from becoming Pain Street.” Small business owners say that the expiration of the tax credits and soaring healthcare costs could trigger a cascade of economic impacts for small businesses: More than half of business owners have already cut their own compensation due to combined economic pressures ranging from rising healthcare costs to tariff fallout and inflation 41% of those surveyed said they would be forced to increase prices to their customers About one in four would freeze hiring or delay expansion plans for their businesses One in five would reduce their workforce More than a third of small business owners say the combined pressure of healthcare costs and other economic factors threatens their ability to stay in business The healthcare cost crisis facing small businesses comes after Congress passed H.R. 1, a $2+ trillion tax package that helped the wealthy and large corporations but failed to extend the ACA tax credits and cut nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid. Seventy-two percent of small business owners surveyed said Congressional priorities are misaligned with small business needs, and, as the shutdown continues, they want Congress to make the tax credits permanent. “Small businesses employ nearly half the people in this country. We are the backbone of the American economy, and our success is everyone’s success,” said SBAF network member Ja'Net Adams, owner of EMACK Consulting LLC in Kernersville, N.C. “When soaring healthcare costs threaten small businesses, they threaten millions of jobs, families, and communities. Congress needs to focus on policies that will help us, like making the tax credits permanent. These aren’t radical ideas. They’re common-sense solutions that would help us succeed.” The survey shows small business owners across the political spectrum agree on a number of policy solutions to rein in the cost of healthcare: 87% support making the enhanced ACA premium tax credits permanent 95% support allowing small businesses to join together for group purchasing power 94% support extending Medicare drug price negotiations to private insurance 92% support capping commercial drug price increases at the inflation rate 92% support providing tax credits for small businesses offering employees Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRA) 96% support hospital price transparency enforcement to enable comparison shopping The survey was conducted Sept. 23-Oct. 14, 2025, and included 620 small business owners from diverse industries across all 50 states. Thirty percent of respondents identified as Democrats, 22% as Republicans and 46% as neither. To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America's Future, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or 617-875-6581. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We're committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize Main Street by advancing a just and equitable economic framework that works for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.or g .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Small business owner urges for extension of ACA Premium tax credits at press conference with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Caucus on Capitol Hill Statement by Claire Sachs, founder of TPAC Consulting in Washington, DC and Small Business for America's Future network member WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2025 – “Congress is about to price 5 million small business owners out of healthcare coverage. When the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits expire at year's end, we're looking at premium spikes averaging 20% that will force closures across Main Street. “I know what losing healthcare stability would mean for small businesses like mine. My insulin pump costs $7,500, and the insulin itself runs $12,000 a year. Without coverage, my annual medical bills would top $30,000, an impossible burden for a small business owner operating with tight margins. “Before the ACA passed, insurers would have rejected me outright because of my chronic conditions, trapping me in corporate jobs for coverage. The passage of the ACA and these tax credits finally let me launch my own business in November of 2021. If the credits expire, I will likely have to close my doors and look for a job that offers health insurance. "Small businesses are getting crushed by tariffs, inflation, and tax policies that favor our large corporate competitors. We cannot absorb an enormous healthcare cost spike on top of everything else. For many businesses, this increase will be the final blow. A Small Business for America’s Future survey shows 55% of small businesses have owners, employees, or families who rely on premium tax credits. There are 30 million small businesses in America employing half of the country’s workforce. This could take millions of productive people out of the economy. “Extend the enhanced premium tax credits now. Small businesses built this economy, and we deserve healthcare that doesn’t bankrupt us.” To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America's Future, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or (617) 875-6581. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Small businesses call on Congress for tariff relief as costs surge 275% overnight, stifling growth and hiring Small business owners detail crushing costs, unpredictable policy changes threatening Main Street businesses during a press conference with Sen. Markey, the ranking member on the Senate Committee on Entrepreneurship and Small Business WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2025– Small Business for America's Future network members Legrand Lindor, owner of LMI Textiles in Milton, Massachusetts and Nunzio DeFilippis, Co-CEO of CargoTrans in Manhasset, New York, spoke today at a press conference hosted by Sen. Ed Markey, ranking member on the Senate Committee on Entrepreneurship and Small Business, alongside U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). They called on Congress to pass tariff relief policies like the Small Business RELIEF Act, which would provide targeted relief to help Main Street businesses. "One of our most recent shipments just hit us with a $15,000 tariff bill for the exact same products that used to cost us $4,000 in tariffs before February. That's a 275% increase. This is not sustainable. Small businesses like mine don't have the cash reserves that big corporations have to absorb the impacts of these kinds of sudden policy changes. These cost increases are incredibly damaging and put small businesses like mine in jeopardy. That’s why we need Congress to pass remedies like then Small Business RELIEF Act . It would provide retroactive relief and predictable tariff policy so businesses like mine can focus on growing instead of just surviving the next tariff surprise." Legrand Lindor LMI Textiles Milton, Mass. "I help small businesses navigate global trade and I'm watching them get crushed by these constant tariff changes, and honestly, it's heartbreaking. I have one client who had set aside $1 million for growth projects this year for hiring and expansion plans. That money is gone now, absorbed by unexpected tariff costs on materials they've been importing for years. What I often think about are the small businesses who can't afford to hire someone like me to help them navigate these changes. They're trying to figure out these constantly shifting rules on their own, and it's nearly impossible. The uncertainty is killing small businesses because you can't run a business when the rules keep changing and you don't have the resources to keep up. This is going to deter people from even starting small businesses, and that should worry all of us." Nunzio DeFilippis Co-CEO of CargoTrans Manhasset, New York To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America's Future, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or (617) 875-6581. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Small Business Owners Drive Economic Conversations with Current and Former Policymakers During August Recess Small Business for America’s Future leaders engage Democratic Leader Jeffries and former AG Holder on critical economic issues including taxes, tariffs, healthcare and redistricting  WASHINGTON, D.C. Aug, 21, 2025 – Small business owners from across the country are warning that issues like rising costs and unpredictable policies including tariffs are squeezing Main Street and stalling growth. During the August congressional recess, members of Small Business for America’s Future (SBAF) shared their experiences with policymakers, highlighting how decisions in Washington directly impact their ability to keep doors open, hire workers, and invest in their communities. Andrea Vigil, co-founder of Allegiant Electric LLC in Las Vegas specializes in electrical contracting, solar battery storage, and EV charging stations. Her company has seen imported component costs more than double in recent years, ballooning project budgets by hundreds of thousands of dollars. “Nearly half of respondents in a SBAF survey have seen tariffs drive up prices. For me that means homeowners are canceling or delaying projects altogether,” Vigil said. “Every increase chips away at our ability to grow, hire, and reinvest in our community.” Vigil joined SBAF Senior Advisor Rhett Buttle, Co-Chair Shaundell Newsome, owner of Sumnu Marketing, and SBAF council member Tiara Flynn, founder of Phenomenal Mama, to share these concerns at a roundtable with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford, D-Nev., in Las Vegas, Nevada. Newsome emphasized that small business owners are facing impossible choices. "Small business owners are the backbone of our communities. We know our employees personally. We know their families. We sponsor the local Little League teams. We're the ones people turn to when they need jobs," said Newsome. "Right now, we're watching business owners across the country make impossible choices like cutting staff, reducing hours, or closing their doors entirely.” In Ohio, Anne Zimmerman, founder of Zimmerman & Co CPAs Inc. and SBAF Co-Chair, is watching her small business clients struggle with an impossible planning environment. Tax and tariff policies change with every election cycle and regulatory requirements shift unpredictably. Zimmerman raised these concerns at a grassroots roundtable on redistricting with former Attorney General Eric Holder, alongside SBAF council member Todd Hamblin, President and CEO of Global Aerospace Design Corp. “When I work with a client on a five-year financial plan, we have to make assumptions about tax rates and compliance requirements. But when policies swing wildly every election cycle, those assumptions become worthless,” Zimmerman said. “I’ve watched clients postpone major investments, equipment purchases and hiring decisions because they can’t count on a stable policy environment. Unlike large corporations with teams of lobbyists, small businesses don’t have the cushion to absorb that kind of uncertainty.” As Congress returns from recess, SBAF is calling on lawmakers to develop and prioritize policies that provide the stability and support America's 33 million small businesses need to thrive. To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America's Future, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or (617) 875-6581. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Small businesses caught in devastating inflation-tariff squeeze as July costs hit 5-month high call for relief Statement by Small Business for America's Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman​, Founder & Owner of Zimmerman & Co CPAs Inc., on the Bureau of Labor Statistics July Consumer Price Index Report Aug. 12, 2025– “Small Business for America’s Future is alarmed by today’s July inflation report, which shows inflation accelerating to its fastest pace in five months, a devastating development for small businesses, which are fighting for survival in an increasingly hostile economic environment. “Small businesses already operating on razor-thin margins and struggling with trade policy uncertainty cannot withstand inflation. Unlike large corporations with large cash reserves and negotiating power, small businesses have nowhere to turn for relief. They can’t absorb these rising costs , they can’t easily pass them on to customers without losing business, and they can’t cut costs without harming their ability to keep their doors open. In fact a SBAF survey shows 80% of Main Street businesses see tariffs as a threat to their survival. “Congress and the administration must provide relief that recognizes the disproportionate burden these policies place on small businesses. Solutions like the CANADA Act , which would exempt goods imported by or for the use of small business from the duties imposed by tariffs, and the Small Business Liberation Act are steps in the right direction. We need policy solutions that provide the stability and predictability small businesses require to plan, invest, and grow. “The strength of America's economy lies in the entrepreneurial activity of our small business community. Let's provide them with the stable economic foundation and sound policies they need to compete and grow. Here’s what small business owners are saying: “I don’t know how to put a business plan together that makes any sense to anyone,” Mr. Scheffel said. Neither do many of his customers, who have delayed or reduced orders. Doug Scheffel, Owner of ETM Manufacturing, Littleton, MA New York Times "We haven't been able to do that expansion that we were hoping to do. And had to put the brakes on that again, because I don't wanna hire some folks and then have to lay them off in a month or two. And the going back and forth, yes, we're gonna do the tariffs, no we aren't. You know, it just puts us in a limbo kind of state, in a lukewarm state. And it's frustrating. Gladys Harrison, Owner of Big Mama’s Kitchen and Catering, Omaha, NE Associated Press “The reason why we were able to do any type of growth is that mid-last year, I invested my entire retirement… So I'm at this point where all my cards are on the table. So if we aren't able to weather it, there's no more reserves for me to kind of tap into as a business owner. I don't have the ability to weather a 3 to 6 month loss.” Gabe Hagen, Owner of Brick Road Coffee, Tempe, AZ CNN "We're going to do the best we can to keep our prices where they are,” she said. “However, if prices go up, then we also have to raise our prices accordingly in order to make money. We're in this to make some money, to make a living, to support our families. ... So, we have to do what we have to do." Katrina Golden, Owner of Lil Mama’s Sweets & Treats, August GA Scripps News To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America's Future, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or (617) 875-6581. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 100+ Small Business Owners Warn Congress During Recess That Continued Tariff Chaos Will Push Struggling Businesses Over the Edge 100+ small business owners signed on to Small Business for America’s Future’s letter urging President Trump and Congress to take action on tariffs that are forcing impossible choices between business survival and consumer price increases with 79% expressing concern about a U.S. recession within the next 12 months. WASHINGTON, July 30, 2025 – Unpredictable tariff policies are forcing small businesses across the country into a financial crisis. With Congress home on recess and an August 1 tariff implementation deadline looming, 100+ small business owners from across the country have signed a letter to President Trump, Treasury Secretary Bessent, and members of Congress demanding immediate tariff relief, as data reveals the devastating impact current trade policies are having on Main Street businesses. With 97% of U.S. importers being small businesses , when tariffs rise these companies face steep costs that threaten their survival. A Small Business for America’s Future survey shows a staggering 80% of Main Street businesses surveyed that are affected by tariffs view them as an existential or major threat to their survival, while 79% express concern about a U.S. recession within the next 12 months. “Small businesses like mine are facing an unprecedented crisis from unpredictable tariff policies that are forcing us to make impossible choices,” said Walt Rowen, President of Susquehanna Glass Company in Columbia, Pennsylvania. “Unlike large corporations, we don’t have the resources to absorb sudden cost increases or navigate supply chain disruptions. When tariffs drive up costs on essential materials, we either absorb costs, eating into our margins, or pass them on to consumers who are already struggling with inflation. It’s going to raise prices across the economy. This is untenable for Main Street and the country because a strong economy requires strong small businesses. ” The letter details the impact tariffs are having on small businesses. “Unlike large corporations that have the resources to navigate supply chain disruptions or absorb unexpected cost increases, small businesses operate on thin margins and have limited flexibility. When tariffs drive up the cost of essential materials and products, we face an impossible choice: Either absorb costs that threaten our survival or pass them on to consumers who are already struggling with inflation.” The signers are demanding immediate action on tariff relief that recognizes the disproportionate burden these policies place on small businesses. With the August 1 deadline fast approaching, they emphasize that the administration has the immediate authority to provide relief, while Congress can use its oversight role to ensure small business concerns are prioritized in trade policy decisions. They specifically call for solutions like the Small Business Liberation Act and trade policy reforms that provide the stability and predictability small businesses require to plan, invest, and grow. With more than 33 million U.S. small businesses desperately needing relief from overly broad and unpredictable tariffs that threaten their ability to compete, the letter makes clear that small businesses cannot and should not bear the disproportionate burden of trade policy decisions. As lawmakers return to Washington after hearing from struggling Main Street businesses in their home districts, these entrepreneurs are counting on Congress to prioritize policies that will keep the backbone of America's economy alive. Here’s what small business owners are saying: "I had to spend over $25,000 stockpiling cups from China just to avoid even higher tariff costs, but I'm still facing 12-15% increases on essential supplies like paper goods. These unpredictable policies are forcing me to make desperate financial decisions that strain my cash flow and limit my ability to invest in growing my business and serving my community." Gabe Hagen Founder Brick Road Community Corporation Tempe, Arizona "Unpredictable tariff policies forced us to delay a large project delivery by two months when suppliers suddenly demanded additional payments to cover unexpected tariff expenses. This created significant disruption for our client and damaged relationships we've worked years to build. Small manufacturers like us can't absorb these sudden policy changes without serious consequences." Carrin Harris Blitz Proto Farmington, Michigan “We distribute many products made with aluminum, and due to tariff volatility, these costs have increased exponentially. What's even more challenging is that our suppliers are now expecting us to handle the administration of customs, duty and taxes in addition to the product price increase which adds additional operational costs. As a small medical supply and manufacturing, we don't have the margins to absorb these compounding expenses without it threatening our ability to stay competitive.” Legrand Lindor LMI Textiles Milton, Massachusetts “Unpredictable tariffs on the globally sourced spices that give our soul food its signature flavor have put our family owned local business in a difficult position. Plans on expansion of our seasonings on a larger scale—creating new jobs and investing directly in our community— have been put on hold because of the uncertainty around these rising costs. Our restaurant can’t keep absorbing the increases on everyday essentials, and not pass these costs on to our customers, many of whom are working families who’ve supported us for years. Small businesses like ours are the backbone of local economies, and when we’re forced to scale back or stall growth, it doesn’t just hurt us—it limits opportunities for employment, slows economic development, and deepens hardship in the very neighborhoods we’re trying to uplift.” Gladys Harrison Owner Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering Omaha, Nebraska Read the full letter here . ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 100+ Small Business Owners Warn Congress During Recess That Continued Tariff Chaos Will Push Struggling Businesses Over the Edge 100+ small business owners signed on to Small Business for America’s Future’s letter urging President Trump and Congress to take action on tariffs that are forcing impossible choices between business survival and consumer price increases with 79% expressing concern about a U.S. recession within the next 12 months. WASHINGTON, July 30, 2025 – Unpredictable tariff policies are forcing small businesses across the country into a financial crisis. With Congress home on recess and an August 1 tariff implementation deadline looming, 100+ small business owners from across the country have signed a letter to President Trump, Treasury Secretary Bessent, and members of Congress demanding immediate tariff relief, as data reveals the devastating impact current trade policies are having on Main Street businesses. With 97% of U.S. importers being small businesses , when tariffs rise these companies face steep costs that threaten their survival. A Small Business for America’s Future survey shows a staggering 80% of Main Street businesses surveyed that are affected by tariffs view them as an existential or major threat to their survival, while 79% express concern about a U.S. recession within the next 12 months. “Small businesses like mine are facing an unprecedented crisis from unpredictable tariff policies that are forcing us to make impossible choices,” said Walt Rowen, President of Susquehanna Glass Company in Columbia, Pennsylvania. “Unlike large corporations, we don’t have the resources to absorb sudden cost increases or navigate supply chain disruptions. When tariffs drive up costs on essential materials, we either absorb costs, eating into our margins, or pass them on to consumers who are already struggling with inflation. It’s going to raise prices across the economy. This is untenable for Main Street and the country because a strong economy requires strong small businesses. ” The letter details the impact tariffs are having on small businesses. “Unlike large corporations that have the resources to navigate supply chain disruptions or absorb unexpected cost increases, small businesses operate on thin margins and have limited flexibility. When tariffs drive up the cost of essential materials and products, we face an impossible choice: Either absorb costs that threaten our survival or pass them on to consumers who are already struggling with inflation.” The signers are demanding immediate action on tariff relief that recognizes the disproportionate burden these policies place on small businesses. With the August 1 deadline fast approaching, they emphasize that the administration has the immediate authority to provide relief, while Congress can use its oversight role to ensure small business concerns are prioritized in trade policy decisions. They specifically call for solutions like the Small Business Liberation Act and trade policy reforms that provide the stability and predictability small businesses require to plan, invest, and grow. With more than 33 million U.S. small businesses desperately needing relief from overly broad and unpredictable tariffs that threaten their ability to compete, the letter makes clear that small businesses cannot and should not bear the disproportionate burden of trade policy decisions. As lawmakers return to Washington after hearing from struggling Main Street businesses in their home districts, these entrepreneurs are counting on Congress to prioritize policies that will keep the backbone of America's economy alive. Here’s what small business owners are saying: "I had to spend over $25,000 stockpiling cups from China just to avoid even higher tariff costs, but I'm still facing 12-15% increases on essential supplies like paper goods. These unpredictable policies are forcing me to make desperate financial decisions that strain my cash flow and limit my ability to invest in growing my business and serving my community." Gabe Hagen Founder Brick Road Community Corporation Tempe, Arizona "Unpredictable tariff policies forced us to delay a large project delivery by two months when suppliers suddenly demanded additional payments to cover unexpected tariff expenses. This created significant disruption for our client and damaged relationships we've worked years to build. Small manufacturers like us can't absorb these sudden policy changes without serious consequences." Carrin Harris Blitz Proto Farmington, Michigan “We distribute many products made with aluminum, and due to tariff volatility, these costs have increased exponentially. What's even more challenging is that our suppliers are now expecting us to handle the administration of customs, duty and taxes in addition to the product price increase which adds additional operational costs. As a small medical supply and manufacturing, we don't have the margins to absorb these compounding expenses without it threatening our ability to stay competitive.” Legrand Lindor LMI Textiles Milton, Massachusetts “Unpredictable tariffs on the globally sourced spices that give our soul food its signature flavor have put our family owned local business in a difficult position. Plans on expansion of our seasonings on a larger scale—creating new jobs and investing directly in our community— have been put on hold because of the uncertainty around these rising costs. Our restaurant can’t keep absorbing the increases on everyday essentials, and not pass these costs on to our customers, many of whom are working families who’ve supported us for years. Small businesses like ours are the backbone of local economies, and when we’re forced to scale back or stall growth, it doesn’t just hurt us—it limits opportunities for employment, slows economic development, and deepens hardship in the very neighborhoods we’re trying to uplift.” Gladys Harrison Owner Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering Omaha, Nebraska Read the full letter here . ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .

Dear President Trump, Secretary Bessent, Speaker Johnson, Majority Leader Thune, Minority Leader Schumer, and Leader Jeffries, Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, representing 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and employing nearly half of the private workforce. We are the engine of innovation, job creation, and economic growth that drives communities across the country. As network members of Small Business for America's Future (SBAF), we represent small business owners across the country who are facing an unprecedented crisis. We are writing to you because our businesses, and the livelihoods they support, are under threat from current tariff policies. The crisis is immediate and severe. Recent Small Business for America's Future survey data reveals the devastating impact these policies are having on small businesses: 80% of businesses affected by tariffs view them as an existential or major threat to their survival 79% of respondents are concerned about a U.S. recession within the next 12 months 48% say they are unable grow or expand in the current economic environment Unlike large corporations that have the resources to navigate supply chain disruptions or absorb unexpected cost increases, small businesses operate on thin margins and have limited flexibility. When tariffs drive up the cost of essential materials and products, we face an impossible choice: Either absorb costs that threaten our survival or pass them on to consumers who are already struggling with inflation. Consider the real impact on small businesses across America: An Arizona coffee shop owner spent over $25,000 stockpiling cups from China to avoid tariff increases, yet still faces 12-15% cost hikes on paper goods and supplies. A Michigan engineering company had a medical device project delayed when suppliers suddenly demanded additional payments to cover unexpected tariff expenses. A Nebraska soul food restaurant may have to raise prices or delay hiring due to unpredictable tariffs on the globally sourced spices that define their dishes. We urgently need Congress and the administration to act on tariff relief that recognizes the disproportionate burden these policies place on small businesses. Solutions like the Small Business Liberation Act are a step in the right direction. We need trade policy solutions that provide the stability and predictability small businesses require to plan, invest, and grow. More than 33 million U.S. small businesses need relief from overly broad and unpredictable tariffs that threaten our ability to compete. This approach recognizes what policymakers must understand that small businesses cannot and should not bear the disproportionate burden of trade policy decisions. Adding to these challenges, the recently enacted Republican budget adds an estimated $3 trillion to the national debt while cutting health programs that small businesses and their families rely on. Combined with tax cuts that disproportionately benefit large corporations, these policies have worsened an already fragile economic environment where we are struggling to survive mounting tariff costs. These additional fiscal burdens compound the impossible choices small businesses face daily. The success of America's economy depends on the success of its small businesses. We employ your constituents, support your local communities, and drive the innovation that keeps America competitive. We are not asking for special treatment, we are asking for fair treatment and the opportunity to compete on a level playing field. Thank you for your consideration and leadership. Sincerely, Small Business for America's Future Alabama Henry Mcmullen, Mac's BBQ place, Aliceville, AL Arizona Nicole Bennett, Perry Consulting LLC, Goodyear, AZ Frances Cardenas, Dedicated Catering LLC, Glendale, AZ Leticia D'Amore, D’Amore Training & Consulting, Maricopa, AZ Ruth Graham, InfiniteTransitions LLC, Phoenix, AZ Gabe Hagen, Brick Road Community Corporation, Tempe, AZ Melissa Harlan, Drink Me! Tea Room, Tempe, AZ California Gernado Abrams, Bungi Enterprises, Huntington Beach, CA Karrye Braxton, Braxton Family Fund, Los Angeles, CA Michael Brown, Cantara Cellars, Flat Fish Brewing Company, Camarillo, CA California Association for Micro Enterprise Opportunity, San Francisco, CA Anna Chavez, Vez Guitar Academy, San Gabriel, CA Mary Johnson, Von Phreak, Los Angeles, CA Patricia Lounis, MYX Product Group, Claremont, CA Haley Pavone, Pashion Footwear INC, San Luis Obispo, CA George Sararu, Omega-Comfort LLC, Hemet, CA Christopher Sharpe, Norden Living LLC, San Francisco, CA Thomas Wesley, Mountaineers Fire Crew, Inc., Redding, CA Colorado Julie Rhodes, Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions LLC, Broomfield, CO Masaru Torito, Kokoro Restaurant, Arvada, CO District of Columbia Kimberly Daniels, Mercantile Logistics & International Trade, Inc., Washington, DC Jefefry Shapiro, Fountain Square Beverage Concept, LLC, Washington, DC Florida Miriam Carlota Arthur-Sullivan, NieCat Blessings Academy, Miami, FL Andrica Durm-Williams, Dorays Hair Studio, Crestview, FL Leonor Galvan, ACCTAX-Accounting & Tax Services, Lauderhill, FL Joseph Kipnis, High Seas Innovation, Sunny Isles Beach, FL Alex Marron, E-Marine Systems and E-RV Solar, Fort Lauderdale, FL Gabrielle Smith, Lumen Mundi, Boynton Beach, FL Stephen Smith, Tollanis Solutions Inc, Boynton Beach, FL Miriam Sullivan, NieCat Blessings Academy, Miami, FL Georgia Patrick Brown, Sierra International LLC, Conyers, GA André Cross, Elements Of Life Wellness LLC, Atlanta, GA Illinois Dyann Berndt, Stenographic Court Reporter, Berwyn, IL Veronica Yepez, La Florencia Bakery, Chicago, IL Kansas Rebecca James, Abovo LLC, Prairie Village, KS Kentucky Oliver Sullivan, Mystic Dragon Fun Center, Georgetown, KY Louisiana Aimee Daigle, Noble Plastics, Youngsville, LA Maryland Connie Mazur, CyberVillage Networkers, Inc., Ellicott City, MD Carol Moorefield, Caldron Crafts , Windsor Mill, MD Massachusetts Cambridge Local First, Cambridge, MA Kerry Dietz, Dietz & Company Architects, Springfield, MA Shawn Laughlin, Caskata, Wellesley, MA Legrand Lindor, LMI Textiles, Milton, MA Christopher Schaffner, The Green Engineer, Inc., Concord, MA Doug Scheffel, Sajawi Corporation, Littleton, MA U.S. Haitian Chamber of Commerce, Inc., Randolph, MA Michigan Johnnie Jr Bellows, Aura Company LLC, Ann Arbor, MI Chris Casteel, Anew Life Prosthetics and Orthotics, Detroit, MI Carrin Harris, Blitz Proto, Farmington Hills, MI De Lorenco L Jackson, Damajha Systems, Lawton, MI Ron Kurnik, Superior Coffee Roasting Co., Inc., Sault Sainte Marie, MI Tonya McNeal-Weary, IBS Global Consulting, Inc., Detroit, MI Troy Morris, Kall Morris Inc (KMI), Marquette, MI Minnesota Deacon Kyllander, Kyllander, Taconite, MN Jannie Seibure, Cavalla Travel and Tour, Minneapolis, MN Faira Torchia, Connections XIII, Minneapolis, MN Missouri Dan Nix, PPLSI, Grain Valley, MO Nebraska Gladys Harrison, Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering Inc., Omaha, NE Nevada Jenay Aiksnoras, Lake Tahoe Yoga & Bliss Experiences, Stateline, NV Benjamin Asquith, Chubby Pet Products LLC, Las Vegas, NV Rony Delgarde, Global Paint for Charity, Inc, Las Vegas, NV Lee Henry, Retro Manufacturing, Henderson, NV Shaundell Newsome, Sumnu Marketing, Henderson, NV Andrea Vigil, Allegiant Electric LLC, Las Vegas, NV New Jersey Jean Alix Pierre Louis Seraphin, IT and PC Tech Field Services, Williamstown, NJ New Mexico Frank Spillers, Rural Community Solutions, Las Cruces, NM New York Todd Greenberg, Budget Blinds of Ossining, Pound Ridge, NY Patrick Hall, Elan Flowers, New York, NY Susanna Hollnsteiner, Metalocke Industries Inc, Woodside, NY Jane Parmel, Cardinal Profit Strategies, Rockaway Park, NY North Carolina Azania Herron, Zaja PR, Charlotte, NC Brandon Korman, The BDK Management Group Inc, Leland, NC Greater NC Black Chamber of Commerce, Winston Salem, NC Lukaso Onokoko, Health Markets, Charlotte, NC Ohio Marina Amaral, Sugar Emporium LLC, Mason, OH Prince Bonsu, All Star Academy Learning Center, Pickerton, OH Todd Hamblin, Global Aerospace Design Corp, Cincinnati, OH Melissa Supler, Lyman Steel Company, Cleveland, OH Anne Zimmerman, Zimmerman & Co CPAs, Cincinnati, OH Oregon Mike Roach, Paloma Clothing, Portland, OR Pennsylvania Darren Pearson, Dibbs BBQ, Philadelphia, PA Walter Rowen, Susquehanna Glass Co., Lancaster, PA South Carolina Cynthia Everette, ABC Locksmiths, LLC, Greenville, SC South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Columbia, SC Tennessee India Fleming, Barber, Memphis, TN Texas Nancy Anderson, LED OEM Partners LLC, Houston, TX Rebecca Boenigk, Neutral Posture, Inc., College Station, TX Juan Galvan, Galsan Logistics , laredo, TX Coretta Graham, Graham Legal Services, Corpus Christi, TX Janice Jucker, Three Brothers Bakery, Houston, TX Alessandra Manzano, Apfelbaum Industrial Inc, El Paso, TX Mark Olinger, The Big Bear Group, LLC, Pittsburg, TX Adam Orman, L'Oca d'Oro, Austin, TX Jane Pettigrew, CPAj LLC, Dallas, TX Michael Reilly, Artifacture, Dallas, TX Utah William Fisher, Fisher Writing and Editing Services, Millcreek, UT Virginia Yvonne Finney, Loadstar Consulting, Inc., Newport News, VA Kenneth Hart, K Hart Holdings T/A signarama-norfolk, Norfolk, VA Michelle Thomas, M Design Studio, LLC, Alexandria, VA Frankye Thomas, Dynasty Jordan LLC, Alexandria, VA Washington Tanya Brooks, Tanya's Legal Services, LLC, Bremerton, WA Jill Nelson, Hot Diggity Dog Walking & Pet Sitting, Vancouver, WA Wisconsin Daniel Guerra Jr., Altus, Madison, WI Hugo Ramirez, Frio Mexican Treats, Appleton, WI

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Conan Knoll conan@emccommunications.com (831) 524-6764  Small business group: Congress sends devastating bill to president’s desk, ignoring Main Street's real needs Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Shaundell Newsome, Founder, Sumnu Marketing, Las Vegas, Nevada, on the passage of H.R. 1 Washington, D.C., July 3, 2025– “The House passage today of the reconciled version of H.R. 1 means this fiscally reckless legislation now heads to the president's desk, despite adding a staggering $3.4 trillion to the deficit and cutting healthcare for 17 million Americans. At a time when 80% of small businesses fear a recession, this massive borrowing to fund tax cuts for large corporations and the wealthy will drive up interest rates and crowd out the credit small businesses need to grow. “This staggering debt increase compounds the fundamental problems with H.R. 1 that already hurts small businesses through massive healthcare cuts that will strip coverage from millions of Americans and enshrine a tax system favoring large corporations over Main Street. We support helping entrepreneurs, but this bill takes the wrong approach by making permanent the Tax Cut and Jobs Act small business deduction that has failed to help most small businesses expand or hire. Meanwhile, it preserves the enormous corporate tax rate cuts large corporations received under the TCJA. Once again, big business wins while Main Street gets left behind with a massive debt burden for future generations. “What's worse, this bill devastates healthcare access by slashing more than $1 trillion from Medicaid and failing to extend key subsidies that make coverage more affordable. Small businesses depend on healthy workers and healthcare costs remain among the top concerns for owners, with 90% experiencing steep premium increases in the past year. Yet, about 22 million people, including 5 million small business owners, will see their healthcare costs soar or lose coverage because H.R. 1 failed to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. “Small businesses need real solutions—like extended ACA subsidies to make healthcare more affordable, a tax code that actually levels the playing field with large corporations, and responsible fiscal policies that don’t saddle future generations with debt. Congress has failed Main Street by passing this misguided legislation instead of focusing on policies that address our most pressing challenges: healthcare costs, economic uncertainty, and the unfair advantages given to large corporations over Main Street entrepreneurs. “Congress has sent the president legislation that harms the very businesses that create nearly half of all jobs and drive innovation in every community across America. Small businesses deserve economic policies that help us thrive and compete, not reckless legislation that makes it harder for us to succeed while adding trillions to the national debt.” To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America's Future, contact Conan Knoll at conan@emccommunications.com or (831) 524-6764. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders advocating for policy solutions that promote a thriving, inclusive economy. We work to ensure that lawmakers prioritize the needs of Main Street, advancing a just and equitable economic framework for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. For more information, visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org .