Strengthening Support for American Manufacturing Act
## Summary The Strengthening Support for American Manufacturing Act requires the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to commission a comprehensive study and report evaluating federal programs that support supply chain resilience and manufacturing innovation. The goal is to identify inefficiencies, overlaps, and gaps in these programs and propose actionable improvements. The bill defines “critical supply chains” as systems vital to national security, public health, technology, energy, transportation, and agriculture, and seeks to strengthen their reliability and reduce vulnerabilities. By involving the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) in the analysis and mandating a response from the Secretary, the bill aims to ensure evidence-based reforms and legislative follow-through to boost U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and preparedness. ## Key Points - Mandatory Report: The Secretary of Commerce must produce a report within 1 year identifying all Department of Commerce offices/bureaus involved in supply chain resilience and manufacturing innovation. - Evaluation Criteria: The report will assess each office’s duties, programs, expertise, statutory authority, effectiveness, and limitations. - Gaps and Duplication: The study must pinpoint overlaps or gaps between offices handling similar responsibilities to avoid inefficiencies. - Recommendations: The report will propose ways to optimize operations, improve coordination within the Department of Commerce, and align efforts with other federal agencies. - Congressional Action: The Secretary must submit the report, along with legislative recommendations and a formal response, to key Senate and House committees within 180 days of its completion. ## Impact Areas - Department of Commerce: Directly affects its internal structure and program management for manufacturing and supply chain initiatives. - U.S. Manufacturers and Workers: Could benefit from streamlined support programs, better resource allocation, and innovation funding. - Federal Agencies: Encourages cross-agency collaboration on supply chain and industrial policy, potentially influencing the Department of Defense, Health and Human Services, and Energy.