Peters Commemorates Manufacturing Day, Recognizes Michigan Manufacturers
DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released a video commemorating Manufacturing Day, which is today October 2nd, and recognizing Michigan manufacturers and workers.
“Here in Michigan we make things. It’s simply in our DNA – whether it was building the Arsenal of Democracy during World War II or transforming mobility,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation. “Shifting operations and maintaining staff during this unprecedented crisis has been extremely difficult – but just like before, manufacturers are helping us get through this unprecedented time.”
“I’m working to reduce our reliance on foreign manufacturers in our supply-chain – and bring those jobs to Michigan,” Peters continued. “I’m also continuing my efforts to focus federal policy on manufacturing and streamline existing federal efforts – including expanding apprenticeships and vocational training opportunities so Michiganders can fill good-paying job openings. And I’ll continue fighting to secure resources and relief for manufacturers – especially our small and medium-sized businesses – that are struggling to stay afloat during this pandemic.”
Peters has led numerous efforts to support Michigan manufacturers impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic. Earlier this week, Peters announced he introduced bipartisan legislation that would strengthen public-private partnerships that have been providing critical assistance to small and medium-sized manufacturers throughout this pandemic. In July, Peters introduced the National Institute of Manufacturing Act that would establish an independent federal institute to serve as the hub for federal manufacturing programs that would be led by a Chief Manufacturing Officer (CMO) responsible for creating and implementing a National Strategic Plan for Manufacturing across the executive branch. Peters also this past June helped pass legislation that gave small businesses, including small manufacturers, with PPP loans more flexibility in using the forgivable loans they applied for to maintain operations. Additionally, Peters pressed for funding for small businesses as part of the CARES Act. In addition, he introduced two bills to address vulnerabilities in the medical supply chain and increase capacity for domestic advanced manufacturing of critical drugs and medical devices in Michigan and across the U.S.
Click here for video of his remarks and below is the text as delivered:
“Happy Manufacturing Day Michigan! I want to thank all the engineers, autoworkers, welders and tradesmen and women who keep our state at the forefront of innovation.
“Here in Michigan – we make things. It’s simply in our DNA – whether it was building the Arsenal of Democracy during World War II or transforming mobility. And over the past year, manufacturers and workers have stepped up yet again during this pandemic.
“Shifting operations and maintaining staff during this unprecedented crisis has been extremely difficult – but just like before, manufacturers are helping us get through this unprecedented time.
“In the Senate, I’m working to continue focusing on supporting our manufacturers and workers. Because manufacturing isn’t just critical to our economy – this pandemic has shown it’s critical to our national security too. I’m working to reduce our reliance on foreign manufacturers in our supply-chain – and bring those jobs to Michigan.
“I’m also continuing my efforts to focus federal policy on manufacturing and streamline existing federal efforts – including expanding apprenticeships and vocational training opportunities so Michiganders can fill good-paying job openings. And I’ll continue fighting to secure resources and relief for manufacturers – especially our small and medium-sized businesses – that are struggling to stay afloat during this pandemic.
“Manufacturing is important now — more than ever. To Michigan’s manufacturers and workers: thank you for all you do.”
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