Blake Moore: “I oppose this amendment passionately as I jumped into a debate on this during general debate, because I am so excited to…”

“I oppose this amendment passionately as I jumped into a debate on this during general debate, because I am so excited to jump into it. I appreciate the opportunity to speak. This to me is a classic case of we agree, we just are seeing a very different approach in how we want to go about doing this. I have enjoyed my time on the Armed Services Committee immensely these past 9 months, and for one reason alone, we can find areas of collaboration and areas that we can work on together. Military construction that will go towards projects like providing housing for our men and women serving is a top priority across the board for Democrats and Republicans. I am going to highlight just some of the fundamental, key reasons why this amendment and many others, especially industry folks, with respect to the chamber of commerce, the National Defense Industry of America, the Associated General Contractors of America, and American Council of Engineering Companies, they oppose this effort. In addition to the industry side, and I never thought that I would say this as I start my debate, President Biden and his administration are also in opposition to this for a few key reasons. One, this impacts skilled workforce. The local hiring preferences would significantly impact the military construction contractors' workforce by creating scenarios where long-term, highly skilled workers may have to be laid off in order to meet local hire mandates.…”