On the recordDecember 21, 2010
The America COMPETES Act supports American manufacturing, innovation, and global competitiveness. COMPETES recognizes the challenges facing America's 21st century manufacturers, as well as the importance of a healthy manufacturing base. The bill includes new manufacturing loan guarantees, improved research and development, and strengthens the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. The bill also places a much-needed emphasis on science education, from grade schools to the university level. We need a highly educated workforce to create the next advanced vehicle technology or innovative product that will produce more high-quality jobs in America. COMPETES also supports innovation clusters around the country and creates a focus on innovation within our Federal programs and agencies. America simply cannot afford to sacrifice its innovative edge to growing economies like China and India. The investments made by COMPETES are critical to America's long-term economic health, and I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this bipartisan legislation.
