WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Cole voted today for legislation that will enhance the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. The FY 2006 Science, State, Justice and Commerce Appropriations Act funds the MEP at $106 million.

     "Manufacturing exports made up 91 percent of Oklahoma's total international exports in 2003.The MEP program helps small and medium-sized manufacturers compete on a global level, which is important to the success of the manufacturing industry in Oklahoma," Congressman Cole said.

     The Manufacturing Extension Partnership serves firms throughout Oklahoma via a network of 19 Manufacturing Extension Agents and 5 Applications Engineers.

     The Manufacturing Extension Partnership is a network of not-for-profit centers in nearly 350 locations nationwide representing almost 99 percent of all manufacturing establishments. These establishments employ 11 million people and account for two-thirds of all U.S. manufacturing employment.  Each center works directly with local manufacturers to help them improve manufacturing processes, train workers, improve business practices, and apply information technology to their companies.

     This bill must now be considered by the Senate.
 
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