Since 2000, the United States has lost more than a quarter of all domestic manufacturing jobs, a decline of nearly 5 million, many of which were union jobs. Union members typically earn higher wages and have better access to benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. This loss of union manufacturing jobs has hollowed out communities, including many across Pennsylvania, and robbed Americans of family-sustaining employment opportunities.  

 

When a public entity like local governments or the commonwealth spends money to procure goods, we must focus on investing in local communities.  

 

I will soon introduce legislation that would create the Buy American Grant Program under the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. This program would provide grants to reimburse local government entities for a portion of the procurement cost for American- and union-made vehicles. 

 

This grant program aims to help invest in and incentivize American manufacturing, keeping family sustaining jobs in the US and keeping money in workers’ pockets. Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation to continue to revive American manufacturing and support good-paying union jobs.