The U.S. Senate has passed the bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act, aimed at strengthening American supply chains for critical industries and emerging technologies. The bill, supported by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), will enable the Department of Commerce to work with private sector and government partners to prevent future supply chain disruptions.
Senator Cantwell emphasized the importance of securing supply chains for critical sectors such as transportation and communications. "When supply chains break down, manufacturers are forced to close production lines, and our economic and national security are put at risk," she stated.
Senator Blackburn highlighted the need for a coordinated national strategy that reduces dependence on adversaries like China while leveraging American ingenuity. She noted that establishing a supply chain resiliency program would help coordinate efforts with private sector partners to identify risks and increase competitiveness.
Senator Blunt Rochester expressed pride in the bill's passage, emphasizing its potential to alleviate inflationary pressures on Americans by addressing gaps in supply chains. "Addressing these shortages and disruptions will not only help the average American but also create good-paying jobs," she said.
The legislation comes in response to recent geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters, and the pandemic that have exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. These events have caused delays and shortages impacting various sectors, including medical supplies.
The Act charges the Department of Commerce’s Assistant Secretary for Industry and Analysis with promoting stable supply chains through a new government-wide Supply Chain Resilience Working Group. This group will map, monitor, and model U.S. supply chains in consultation with private industry to identify vulnerabilities.
Industry leaders praised the Senate's action. Jason Oxman from ITI called it an important step towards fostering collaboration between government and industry. Wes Smith from NAED highlighted progress made since the pandemic in understanding electric equipment supply dynamics.
Brian Wild from NAW acknowledged this effort as crucial for enhancing public-private collaboration essential for maintaining resilient infrastructure. Tom Madrecki from Consumer Brands Association stressed the importance of strong supply chains for ensuring availability of essential products.
