In Support of the National Manufacturing Strategy of 2010 (H.R. 4692), the Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act (H.R. 5156), the End the Trade Deficit Act (H.R. 1875), and H. Res. 1558

Floor Speech

* Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of today's manufacturing legislation and strongly endorse the ``Make It In America'' agenda it represents. Given the erosion of our manufacturing base in an increasingly global economy, a deliberate and comprehensive ``Make It In America'' strategy is long overdue.

* In that regard, the National Manufacturing Strategy Act of 2010 (H.R. 4692) will kick start this effort by directing the President to establish a Manufacturing Strategy Task Force charged with thoroughly analyzing the nation's manufacturing sector and developing a comprehensive national manufacturing action plan by February 28, 2011--and every four years thereafter. Standardizing this process will help drive economic growth, increase employment and promote American exports.

* As Co-Chair of the House Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, I am especially pleased to support the Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act (H.R. 5156). This legislation directs the Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration to develop a National Clean Energy Technology Export Strategy aimed at increasing exports in our clean energy sector while promoting policies that reduce production costs and encourage innovation in the clean energy sector here at home. We can and must be a world leader in the 21st century clean energy revolution.

* Finally, I urge a ``yes'' vote on today's End The Trade Deficit Act (H.R. 1875), which will establish an Emergency Trade Deficit Commission to examine the causes and potential solutions for reducing our current trade imbalance. Since growing trade deficits both reflect and exacerbate the erosion of our manufacturing base, this initiative--along with Mr. Cardoza's resolution encouraging America's fruit, vegetable and commodity producers to display the American flag on the labels of products grown in the United States--are an important part of the Make It In America agenda.

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