It has been less than a month since President Joe Biden took office, and we can already see common-sense investment coming to America. The strengthening of "Made-in-America" policies through a recent executive order will be the start of turning our economy back into one of the strongest economies the world has ever seen.
This executive order will support American manufacturers, businesses and workers by closing loopholes that allow companies to skirt the rules while offshoring production. American workers producing goods and services right here in the United States is the best way to "Build Back Better."
The federal government is the number one consumer in the United States. If the federal government spends its dollars to invest in American businesses, we will see unprecedented growth in both small and large companies across the country. The hope is that it will help create and sustain good-paying, union jobs that support workers and communities alike. It is the best chance to rebuild the American middle class. Too many working people have struggled to make ends meet for far too long.
Contracting adds up to nearly $600 billion in federal spending. If these dollars are given to American firms, many businesses in every region of the country will have the opportunity to grow.
Biden has also created a new position to lead the Made-in-America policy approach. The Biden-appointed leader will see to it that the president’s orders are followed and hold decision-makers accountable for the success of the program. Previous enforcement of the Buy American Act has allowed far too many loopholes through pricing, waivers and other exemptions. President Biden’s executive order will close loopholes and put a stop to these counterproductive practices.
Our nation must move away from its reliance on foreign countries. Raising tariffs only caused a trade war and did nothing to spur economic growth in the United States. In the past 4 years alone, more than 300,000 jobs were sent overseas. Now, President Biden’s executive order will open the door to manufacturing and job growth. There is no downside to using our own people and industries to supply goods and services funded by American tax dollars.
When we invest in America, we create an America full of opportunities. In the 1950s, we saw a large portion of the country living the American Dream. Unfortunately, that dream has been out of reach to so many working-class Americans for years. Low-paying jobs combined with a high cost of living have held people down for way too long. President Biden’s executive order will help us get back to growth and prosperity.
Dave Baker is the business manager of the Iron Workers Local 44 in Cincinnati.
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