An apparent last-minute deal between the Trump administration and Canada put the brewing trade war on a 30-day hold, but a return would drive up utility bills.

PORTLAND, Ore. — An Oregon nonprofit which helps people pay for their power bills had phones ringing more than usual Monday.

This followed the Trump administration’s back-and-forth with the leaders of Mexico and Canada over U.S.-imposed tariffs and retaliatory tariffs, which are now all on hold.

Employees at the Oregon Employment Fund said power customers are calling them to ask how they can afford to pay higher heating and power bills if the tariffs are approved.

“You’re talking about low income, fixed income people who aren’t ready to absorb 10-to-25% price increases to begin with, and with no time to plan for this,” said Executive Director Brian Allbritton. “So, it’s going to hurt.”

Those answering the phones Monday helped refer clients to community groups who work directly with consumers needing money for their power bills. He said money raised through supporters has helped keep the Oregon Employment Fund going since 1989.

Even those who don’t require public assistance reacted negatively to the proposed tariffs.

“You have a bunch of leaders who don’t have to buy oil and gas and never go grocery shopping making decisions that are affecting everybody,” said Cheryl Young, walking near Portland’s Pioneer Square on Monday.

“I’m not the sort that’s going to be tremendously impacted by this,” said Brian Davis. “But I’m more worried about folks on the other end of the income scale, people without the privileges I enjoy.”

Businessman Mark Thompson said he was already seen negative effects from the national debate over tariffs.

“I’m trying to grow a business, start a company in Portland for an international company, and we had some good contacts and were moving things forward,” Thompson said. “And now that tariffs were even being talked about, a lot of companies have put a lot of that on hold.”

Consumer advocates say new regulations restrict the Public Utility Commission from cutting off power to any customers who are enrolled in a designated energy assistance program through April 1, but our nation’s reliance on Canada for oil, gas and consumer goods is sure to continue.

“People are struggling to afford their bills after the big rate increases,” said Bob Jenks, executive director of the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board. “So the last thing we need right now is additional rate increases — we’re trying to get the utilities to control their costs.”