1. LATEST POLICY
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Introduced: New Skills for New Jobs Act
On Dec. 10, Sen. Stabenow (D-MI) introduced legislation to provide federal matching funds for state programs that help community colleges partner with local businesses provide job training.
More: Stabenow issue page
Introduced: Innovate America Act
On Nov. 21, Sens. Klobuchar (D-MN) and Hoeven (R-ND) introduced the Innovate America Act—bipartisan legislation to spur innovation and competitiveness. Among other provisions, the legislation funds 100 new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)-focused high schools, puts more computer science teachers in elementary and secondary schools, expands STEM-related undergraduate research opportunities, and helps maintain America’s competitive edge.
More: Klobuchar press release | Gillibrand press release
Introduced: American Export Promotion Act of 2013
On Nov. 20, Sen. Schatz (D-HI) introduced a bill that would invest $8 million in the Market Development Cooperator Program (MDCP). The purpose of MDCP awards is to establish partnerships between the International Trade Administration and non-profit industry groups (such as trade associations and local Chambers of Commerce) to work together with small manufacturers to increase exports. It is estimated that $1 of MDCP awards translates in to $258 in exports.
Introduced: National Fab Lab Network Act of 2013
On Nov. 14, Sens. Durbin (D-IL) and Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced legislation to invest in the next generation of American entrepreneurs and innovators by establishing a national network of fabrication laboratories, known as “fab labs.” Fab labs are small, community-based workshops that give members of the public — from students to small businesses — access to educational resources and high-tech equipment that can design, develop, and create new products.
More: Durbin press release | Gillibrand press release
Introduced: American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act
On Nov. 14, Sens. Kirk (R-IL) and Coons (D-DE) introduced the American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act to bolster the competitiveness of the manufacturing industry in the United States. The bill would require the development of a national manufacturing strategy, boosting the traditional and high-tech manufacturers that employ nearly 12 million Americans.
More: Kirk press release | Coons press release
This update is provided by the Office of U.S. Senator Chris Coons on behalf of the Manufacturing Jobs for America initiative. For more information, visit coons.senate.gov/manufacturing or email jj_singh@coons.senate.gov.
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