Press Releases
Lawler Fights For Tariff Exemption To Keep Rock Salt Affordable Ahead Of New York Winter Months
Washington, D.C. ,
August 25, 2026
Washington, D.C. – 8/25/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer urging him to exempt rock salt imported from Chile from Section 301 tariffs, as higher costs put additional financial pressure on Hudson Valley municipalities and threaten their ability to safely maintain roads and sidewalks during winter storm months. The Hudson Valley relies on imported Chilean rock salt to clear and treat roads, highways, and sidewalks during snow and ice storms.
“Unfortunately, the imposition of these tariffs could significantly increase the cost of imported Chilean rock salt, placing additional financial pressure on municipalities that already operate under limited budgets. Most Hudson Valley communities depend on imported Chilean rock salt for winter maintenance. Under the new tariffs, these costs will skyrocket, forcing local governments to make difficult decisions about how to allocate already limited resources. Municipalities should not have to choose between maintaining essential safety measures and funding other critical public services,” wrote the lawmaker. The full letter can be found HERE. ### |