The publication is reproduced in full below:
MAKE IT IN AMERICA ACT
______
HON. JOHN GARAMENDI
of california
in the house of representatives
Friday, August 20, 2021
Mr. GARAMENDI. Madam Speaker, today I introduce the ``Make It in America Act.'' I thank U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) for sponsoring the companion legislation, which was passed recently by the Senate in the bipartisan ``Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act''
(H.R. 3684).
Our ``Make It in America Act'' would prevent federal agencies from utilizing unnecessary waivers to get around ``Buy American'' requirements. Longstanding Congressional direction under the Buy American Act of 1933 (Public Law 72-428) requires the federal government to give preference to domestically produced goods and services. This ensures that taxpayer dollars are spent in support of American-made products and American jobs.
Despite this law, federal agencies routinely waive ``Buy American'' requirements without cause to purchase foreign-made products even when domestically made alternatives are readily available. This must end.
The ``Make It in America Act'' would close loopholes in our nation's
``Buy American'' laws and require that any waiver of the Buy American Act be publicly posted online with detailed justifications by the respective federal agency.
Our bicameral legislation also supports President Biden's Executive Order No. 14005, by providing Congressional authorization for the new Made in America Office within the White House's Office of Management and Budget. This new office is charged with reviewing all waivers to the Buy American Act sought by federal agencies and ensuring compliance with other ``Buy American'' laws. I strongly support President Biden's executive order creating this much-needed central office dedicated to enforcing ``Buy American'' laws, and I thank him for his leadership on this critical issue.
Congress must further strengthen our nation's ``Buy American'' laws to better support American manufacturing and competitiveness. The legislation I introduce today builds upon the ``Make It In America'' agenda I have advocated for throughout my tenure in Congress and during my earlier service in State government. When the federal government spends taxpayer dollars, those dollars should be spent on goods made by American workers. It's that simple.
Madam Speaker, I encourage all Members to cosponsor my ``Make It in America Act,'' to support well-paying manufacturing jobs and help rebuild the American middle class.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 148
The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
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