MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. (WITN) – Some Eastern Carolina businesses say they are still feeling impacts from tariffs, even after some Trump administration tariffs were ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court earlier this year.
Some are considering turning to a new tariff refund program for help.
Adrinne James, owner of The Wedding Elf Boutique in Morehead City, said her prices have increased significantly. Her cheapest wedding gown used to be under $400. Now the cheapest one approaches $700.
“The cost of shipping has driven up the prices. I have to charge customers to kind of balance everything out, but every now and then, I take a hit because I see a customer that wants something but it’s a little bit out of their budget, so I help them out a little bit,” James said.
Earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled the Trump administration’s tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act unconstitutional. As a result, businesses seeking reimbursement can apply through a program set up by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
James said she didn’t know the program existed and will look into it but is wary that there could be a catch.
Kristy Brittingham, owner of Sandy’s Flower Shoppe, said her prices haven’t been affected, but tariffs have impacted the shipping prices for her products.
“With our company, we buy directly from the farm, so we see that expense on our bill, and we’ve seen that go up 10-15% over the last couple of years,” Brittingham said.
Brittingham said prices will likely have to rise eventually.
“Everything is going up, the cost of living is increasing, so of course that will have an effect,” Brittingham said.
People who have already applied for the refund program will start receiving refunds around May 12th, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
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