March 11, 2022

As Congressional leaders continue to reconcile the Senate-passed U.S. Innovation and Competition Act (USICA) and the House-passed America Creating Opportunities for Manufacturing Pre-Eminence in Technology and Economic Strength (America COMPETES) Act, National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) President and CEO Debra Phillips today released a statement calling on final competitiveness legislation to include a provision from the America COMPETES Act. Specifically, the provision would establish a new office within the Department of Commerce to lead a government-wide effort to strengthen supply chains critical to the nation’s economic vitality and national security:

“Establishing a government-wide office will improve our nation’s supply chains by providing a continuous and streamlined mechanism to monitor and identify future disruptions across critical supply chains, providing an important collaboration mechanism for government, manufacturers, and the electroindustry.” 

“A reliable, resilient supply chain is required to achieve the shared infrastructure modernization goals of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Failure to solve short- and long-term supply chain challenges stalls the transformation of U.S. infrastructure systems toward an accessible, electrified transportation system, modernized buildings and lighting, a more resilient grid, and increased efficiency of expanded manufacturing.”

“NEMA looks forward to working with lawmakers on fortifying our nation’s manufacturing base, strengthening supply chain systems and streamlining regulatory programs to support the creation of an electrified, connected, and sustainable future. These efforts will enhance the quality of life for all Americans, grow our economy, protect the environment, and serve the nation’s long-term interests.”