WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed legislation this week led by U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) to establish a uniform federal standard for products labeled “Made in the U.S.A.” or “Made in America.” Under current conditions, businesses that make their products in the United States face a patchwork of different state laws – making compliance costs burdensome in order to ensure products can be sold across the country with the designation. 

“When a consumer sees a ‘Made in the USA’ label, they know they’re purchasing a well-made product and supporting American jobs,” said Senator King. “These labels are a simple, straightforward way to help consumers make informed decisions – all while supporting American workers and retailers. For too long, a patchwork of confusing differences in state regulations have prevented too many American manufacturers from using the labels, and threatens the economic livelihood of local businesses – but now, we’ve taken an important step toward progress. I’m proud that this bipartisan bill has passed the Senate, and urge the House of Representatives to advance this bill in order to support American-made products and provide clarity for consumers.” 

“Businesses are proud to make their products in the United States.  The current labeling environment prevents countless businesses and products from receiving the recognition they deserve and consumers want. This bill makes sure businesses have an incentive to produce here at home,” said Senator Lee. 

“This is a great win for American manufacturing. Senator King’s bill establishes a federal “Made in U.S.A.” standard that benefits American manufacturers and encourages increased domestic manufacturing. We applaud this legislation that supports our hundreds of New Balance associates in Maine at our Norridgewock, Norway and Skowhegan factories who are proudly producing our premium Made in U.S.A. athletic footwear,” said Amy Dow, New Balance’s Director of Public Relations and Government Affairs.

The Reinforcing American-Made Products Act would ensure that the federal government maintains authority in setting country-of-origin labeling standards and that states do not create conflicting or inconsistent standards governing interstate and exported goods. The varied state regulations create unneeded challenges and expose manufacturers to unnecessary litigation. The Reinforcing American-Made Products Act would fix that by creating one national standard.

The full bill text can be found here.

During his two terms as Governor and in the United States Senate, Senator King has sought to prioritize American manufacturing to promote domestic economic resilience and also further national security interests. He has co-sponsored the Reinforcing American-Made Products Act in the last several Congressional sessions, and recently introduced a bill to support American-grown flowers.