ELLERBE, NC – Representative Larry Kissell (NC-08) met with workers at Richmond Specialty Yarns’ plant in Ellerbe on Monday. Kissell joined company President Kenny Goodman to meet with employees and see the day-to-day operations of the plant.
“I’m very glad to see the work Richmond Specialty Yarns is doing to promote job growth and manufacturing here in Richmond County,” said Kissell. “This industry built our area’s economy, and we need to work to make sure it’s strengthened as it helps move us into the future. This facility is a great example of ways we can make things here, employ hard working Americans, and ship good products across the country and across the world.”
Kissell spoke with workers on the plant floor, and discussed with Goodman his recent legislative efforts to protect domestic textile companies and ensure that their yarns and fabrics are used in all Department of Defense purchases. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Kissell successfully included language into require that materials used in Afghan National Army and Afghan Police uniforms be made in America.
“We really appreciate Congressman Kissell visiting the plant today,” said Goodman. “Congressman Kissell is very important to American manufacturing, and because of his work he is protecting jobs here in Richmond County.”
Kissell has also continued his efforts to require that the Department of Homeland Security and all of its agencies buy and procure only American made textiles. Under current law, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents are often supplied with uniforms made in Mexico and other nations. Kissell has led the legislative fight to correct this economic and national security risk.
“U.S. businesses and American workers should always come first when it comes to using taxpayer funds to equip and outfit those who keep our nation safe,” added Kissell. “Common sense says that if taxpayer funds are going to be used, they should be used to promote our businesses and our workers, and give our men and women the best made products we can. There is absolutely no reason for the men and women who protect our borders to be wearing uniforms with anything other than ‘Made in America’ written on the tag. It’s in the best interest of our national security, and our nation’s economic security.”
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Photo Attached: Richmond Specialty Yarns President Kenny Goodman and employee Jackie Steele speak with Rep. Larry Kissell during his visit to the plant in Ellerbe on Monday. Kissell discussed day-to-day operations at the plant, as well as his recent legislative efforts to protect textile jobs and promote the industry within the district.
