Preserving our status as the world’s leading manufacturing economy is vital to maintaining a thriving middle class, a bright economic future, and our nation’s spirit of invention and innovation. As emerging economies create a more competitive global economy, the United States needs a renewed focus on preparing for a new manufacturing renaissance and a national manufacturing strategy that can get us there.

• The Manufacturing Reinvestment Account Act (H.R. 1737) would enable manufacturers to open a manufacturing reinvestment account (MRA) and make pre-tax contributions of up to $500,000 for seven years. Funds withdrawn from the account could be invested in machinery, facilities, and job training.
• The American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act (H.R. 2447) would bring together members of industry and government to chart a national manufacturing strategy that promotes growth, competitiveness, and job creation.

In addition, I am a member of the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade where I am able to work on a number of issues impacting manufacturers throughout the 16^th District.

Domestic Energy Production

Expanding domestic energy production is vital to fueling our manufacturing sector for generations to come. I have been a vocal advocate for an all-of-the-above energy approach that would lower utility costs for businesses and increase the competitiveness of American manufacturers.  

Reducing Government Burdens

For too long, excessive government regulation has driven good, middle class jobs out of the United States and to our foreign competitors. We need to reform the bureaucracy that has become our government in order to create an atmosphere for job creation in a 21^st century economy.  

Tax Reform

We need to simplify our tax code in order to incentivize manufacturers to build their products domestically.  Otherwise, manufacturing will be stifled and we will lose the investments already made in the infrastructure, schools, and communities that go with a vibrant economy.

Workforce Development

We must actively plan and look to the future with workforce training and development. American workers need to be equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities that come with a 21^st century manufacturing renaissance.