Small Manufacturers Export Initiative Act

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of our nation's small manufacturers. Earlier this year, I introduced H.R. 5797, the Small Manufacturers Export Initiative. I am pleased to see that the provisions of the Small Manufacturers Export Initiative have been included in this Small Business bill that we are voting on today. This legislation, and this Rule, will help small and medium sized manufacturers export their products--not their jobs--overseas. I want to see the label ``Made in America'' again, continuing our drive to create American jobs, and expand America's manufacturing sector--and this bill is an important step in that direction. When we make it in America, we lead the world economy, we promote competitiveness, and we create jobs. The provisions are simple; they provide resources to the Department of Commerce to help small and medium sized businesses and manufacturers export their products overseas and create jobs here at home. The global market presents a fast and ever growing market for U.S. exports. Nationwide, nearly 3.7 million manufacturing jobs are supported by exports--27 percent of all jobs in the manufacturing sector. In my district alone there are over 170 aerospace manufacturing companies, and in Washington state there are over 100 boat manufacturers--with many of these small businesses exporting their products. We must do all we can to support these manufacturing companies sell their products both here in the United States--and in other countries. The small business export promotion provisions included in this bill will build the infrastructure necessary to connect American Small and Medium Sized manufacturers with export opportunities around the world and help them increase their productivity and expand their businesses. Let's work together to ensure ``make it in America'' is a reality for today's economy--and the future. I urge support for this legislation and this Rule.

Mr. Speaker, today I not only stand in support of extending unemployment benefits to over 18,000 Washington State residents; I stand today in support of small manufacturers in my State of Washington.

Earlier this week, I introduced H.R. 5797, the Small Manufacturers Export Initiative. This legislation will help small- and medium-sized manufacturers export their products, not their jobs, overseas. I want to see the label ``Made in America'' again, and this bill is an important step in that direction.

The global market presents a fast and ever-growing market for U.S. exports. Nationwide, nearly 3.7 million manufacturing jobs are supported by exports. In my district alone, there are 182 aerospace production suppliers and other vendors. In Washington State, there are over 100 boat manufacturers, with many of these small businesses not only supplying the domestic market but also exporting their products.

We must do all we can to support these manufacturing companies to sell their products both here in the U.S. and overseas. The Small Manufacturers Export Initiative will build the infrastructure necessary to connect these small- and medium-sized manufacturers with export opportunities around the world and help them increase their productivity and expand their businesses.

I urge support for this legislation.