> It likely means selling some of their amortized equipment to buy different equipment.

Many run their business with the tools they can afford. Upon inspection, you would find that many such businesses have little to no resale value to lean on to make such an upgrade.

> They've likely had notice for a long time. Especially if they participate in their government.

What percentage of people laborers have the time to actively participate in government? I don't know the answer to this but I suspect it's shockingly small.