S.Amdt. 6421

This amendment aims to add a new section to bill S. 4784 to create the National Manufacturing Advisory Council within the Department of Commerce.

Purpose and Goals

The amendment intends to establish a group that provides a forum for communication between the Federal Government and the U.S. manufacturing sector, including workers. Its primary goals are:

• To discuss and propose solutions for problems such as supply chain interruptions, regulatory challenges, and workforce issues.
• To advise the Secretary of Commerce on Federal policies and programs affecting manufacturing.
• To produce an annual national strategic plan with recommendations to help the United States remain a top global destination for manufacturing investment.

Key Changes and Requirements

• Establishment: The Secretary of Commerce must create the council within 180 days of the Act's enactment, consulting with the Secretaries of Labor, Defense, Energy, and Education, as well as the United States Trade Representative.
• Duties: The council must meet at least every 180 days to assess technological developments, solicit input from academia and the public, and recommend ways to support the manufacturing workforce. This includes focusing on low-income individuals in urban and rural areas, as well as economically distressed areas.
• Membership: The council will consist of up to 30 individuals appointed by the Secretary for 3-year terms, representing labor, academia, and private industry (including small and medium-sized manufacturers).
• Transition: All functions of the existing United States Manufacturing Council of the International Trade Administration will be transferred to this new Advisory Council.
• Funding and Duration: No additional funds are authorized for this section. The council is set to terminate on September 30 of the fifth year after its first meeting.