Upton and Others Introduce Bill to Centralize U.S. Manufacturing Program Website

GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Representative Fred Upton is among the bipartisan group of lawmakers bringing forward legislation to address issues in the national supply chain.

Representative Paul Tonko, D-New York, was joined by Upton, R-St. Joseph and Representative Cindy Axne, D-Iowa, during the Manufacturing.gov Act presentation in the House on Tuesday, December 14. An identical bill introduced by Senator Gary Peters of the Township of D-Bloomfield and others passed the Senate earlier. This year.

The bill would create a federal website to link manufacturers to US manufacturing programs. According to a report by the US Government Accountability Office, the federal government manages 58 programs in 11 agencies.

“Now more than ever, we need to take action today to secure our supply chain and bring manufacturing jobs back to Michigan and the United States,†Upton said in a statement. A single hub to connect manufacturers would strengthen the industry, which will be key to ensuring the United States remains an economic superpower, he added.

Supply chain issues have plagued domestic manufacturers in recent months as shortages of key supplies such as semiconductor chips and other materials have slowed producers’ ability to meet demand from U.S. consumers.

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Demand for goods – like electronics, furniture, and home appliances – has increased since the start of the pandemic relative to spending on experiences – like hotel rooms, cruises, concert tickets, and meals in. outside. At the same time, logistics problems caused by the pandemic have prevented manufacturers from increasing production.

“Supporting our domestic manufacturing industry will be of enormous benefit to our economy, job growth and global competitiveness,†Tonko said. “With the COVID crisis putting additional pressure on the industry, it is essential that we strengthen our domestic supply chain by supporting US manufacturers. “

The bill was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

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