Policy and Legal

Congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR) visited Miles Fiberglass & Composites in Clackamas, Oregon, for a roundtable discussion with local manufacturers and other business leaders on the critical need to protect manufacturing-friendly tax policies. Moderated by Miles Fiberglass President and owner and NAM board member Lori Miles-Olund and attended by representatives of the NAM and Oregon Business & Industry, the discussion centered on the importance of preserving the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which has been a lifeline for small manufacturers. 

Stimulating growth: “The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act freed up capital for us to hire more people, invest in new equipment and increase wages,” said Miles-Olund. “It’s essential for manufacturers like us to have a pro-growth tax code that allows us to stay competitive and innovate.”

• The 2017 reforms lowered the corporate tax rate and provided a 20% pass-through deduction for small businesses, boosting their growth for the past seven years.
• However, with key provisions set to expire in 2025, many manufacturers are concerned about the harm to their businesses if Congress fails to act.

A looming threat: Rep. Chavez-DeRemer addressed the impending expiration of these tax provisions, saying, “We cannot afford to return to a tax system that punishes manufacturers for investing in the U.S.”

• She also highlighted the economic ripple effects of tax hikes, noting that when manufacturers are forced to scale back investments, it affects not just their operations but also their suppliers and communities.
• OBI President and CEO Angela Wilhelms echoed these concerns. “Preserving these tax reforms is essential to ensuring that Oregon businesses remain competitive on a global stage,” she said.

Empowering women: Rep. Chavez-DeRemer also discussed the importance of empowering women in the manufacturing sector. She praised Miles Fiberglass’ efforts to recruit more women, adding that legislation like the National Apprenticeship Act can help open doors for women and close the skills gap in manufacturing. 

The last word: “We need policies that allow manufacturers to thrive,” Rep. Chavez-DeRemer said. “Congress must prioritize protecting jobs, ensuring economic stability and keeping American manufacturing competitive.”

If you want to add your voice to the fight for tax reform, or host legislators for a facility visit, check out the NAM’s “Manufacturing Wins” campaign.