A press release from Congressman Don Manzullo:

Reps. Manzullo, Ryan Launch 2011 Manufacturing Caucus
Bipartisan House caucus will focus on strengthening mfg, helping put Americans back to work

WASHINGTON — U.S. Reps. Don Manzullo (R-Ill.) and Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) have renewed their mission to strengthen U.S. manufacturing and help employers put Americans back to work by re-establishing the bipartisan House Manufacturing Caucus for the 112th Congress.

A view of the Chrysler Plant in Belvidere from By-Pass 20, one of the original inducements for siting the plant near Rockford.

Co-chairs Manzullo and Ryan, who co-founded the Caucus in 2003, are focused on enhancing the productivity, capacity, and competitiveness of American manufacturing. More than 70 Members of Congress have already joined the House Manufacturing Caucus, and membership continues to climb.

“The House Manufacturing Caucus will continue to focus on educating Members of Congress on the challenges American manufacturers face daily and supporting legislation that can make U.S. manufacturers more competitive and create jobs,” Manzullo said.

“Even though Congressman Ryan and I have sometimes voted differently on issues affecting our nation’s trade policies, we agree that U.S. manufacturing is still under siege at home and abroad and we have come together to champion the necessity for a strong manufacturing sector in America.

“We are excited about the new members who have joined our cause and we look forward to carrying on our mission to strengthen manufacturing in America.”

Manufacturing has historically contributed more than 60 percent of U.S. exports – or about $50 billion a month – and multiplied every dollar spent into an additional $1.37 in economic activity, greater than other sectors. Americans have a long history of harnessing manufacturing to push the boundaries of science, technology and commerce.

“I am proud to be co-chair of a caucus that is addressing the needs of America’s workers. We will not sit by as a crucial sector of our economy is allowed to decay. I join with Congressman Manzullo on this caucus because of the critical role our manufacturing sector plays in our economy and national security,” Rep. Ryan said.

“In addition to organizing national manufacturing interests, the caucus will hold meetings and roundtable discussions in Congress and around the country to highlight the importance of manufacturing in America.”

Manufacturers face unbalanced global competition, inadequate enforcement of existing trade laws, rising costs and the constricted availability of capital. The House Manufacturing Caucus will host discussions with industry experts, disseminate information, and provide resources so that Members and their staff can learn about the opportunities and challenges facing America’s manufacturing sectors. The Caucus will also aim to provide Members with information to help constituents and spur job creation in manufacturing and associated industries.