Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Following the release of the White House’s AI Action Plan today, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement: 

“Reflecting President Trump’s vision for the United States to lead on artificial intelligence, the White House’s AI Action Plan underscores what manufacturers across the country already know: AI is no longer a future ambition—it is already central to modern manufacturing. For years, manufacturers have been developing and deploying AI-driven technologies—machine vision, digital twins, robotics and more—to make shop floors safer, strengthen supply chains and drive growth.

“Manufacturers have been leading the charge to shape AI policy that accelerates innovation while ensuring appropriate guardrails. The White House’s plan reflects many of the recommendations we’ve put forward—from permitting reform for all energy sources so we can unleash American energy dominance, to a smarter, more targeted regulatory approach, to supporting workforce development and ensuring small and medium manufacturers can access these technologies. With nearly 400,000 open jobs in manufacturing, we need to invest in the workforce of tomorrow—training existing workers to use AI technologies and attracting new high-skilled talent into the sector.

“We’ve been calling for a pro-AI policy environment—one that supports innovation and responsible integration of AI into real-world operations. That means not rushing to impose burdensome laws or regulations when workable rules already exist. It means adopting requirements that are tailored to specific use cases of AI. It also means light-touch regulations that limit compliance costs so small and medium-sized manufacturers aren’t locked out of this technology.

“The White House plan answers that call.”

Background:

Manufacturers have been at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge AI systems that are transforming shop floors and revolutionizing operations.

In March, the NAM submitted comments to inform the White House’s development of an AI Action Plan, explaining how manufacturers are using AI on shop floors and in operations, with specific recommendations on rebalancing and right-sizing AI regulations to enhance America’s global AI dominance.

In May, the NAM proposed a series of policy recommendations for policymakers to drive AI development and adoption in manufacturing, and the Manufacturing Leadership Council, the digital transformation division of the NAM, released a groundbreaking report, “Shaping the AI-Powered Factory of the Future,” revealing that 51% of manufacturers already deploy AI in their operations, and 80% say AI will be essential to growing or maintaining their business by 2030. This is not just about efficiency—it’s about competitiveness, innovation and the future of American industry.

In May 2024, the NAM published “Working Smarter: How Manufacturers Are Using Artificial Intelligence”—a report that explains the ways in which manufacturers are using AI already, making the technology integral to modern manufacturing with manufacturers at the forefront of developing and implementing AI systems.

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.90 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector rese arch and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Portland, Oregon–The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Industries of Arkansas were awarded the 2025 Leadership Award from the Conference of State Manufacturers Associations, whose members also serve as the National Association of Manufacturers’ official state partners. COSMA members drive manufacturers’ priorities on state issues, mobilize local communities and elevate federal policy from the ground up in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The Arkansas State Chamber and AIA were recognized for their innovative, multi-state workforce initiative, Be Pro Be Proud.

“The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Industries of Arkansas and President and CEO Randy Zook have shown extraordinary leadership in tackling one of manufacturing’s most persistent challenges—closing the workforce gap,” said New Jersey Business & Industry Association President and CEO and COSMA Chair Michele Siekerka. “By building a dynamic, multi-faceted initiative that introduces students to the power of manufacturing, opportunities in the industry and hands-on workshops to learn about the sector, the State Chamber and AIA are expanding opportunity and empowering employers across the country to recruit and retain the next generation of talent.”

The Leadership Award recognizes the achievement of a state manufacturing association that has developed impactful initiatives to support manufacturers and strengthen manufacturing in their state. The Be Pro Be Proud initiative uses mobile workshops featuring state-of-the-art simulators to introduce students to modern manufacturing and connect them with local employers. Since its launch in 2016, the program has expanded to seven states, with an eighth launching in 2025, and it has reached more than 422,520 mobile workshop visitors.

“By transforming the perception of modern manufacturing careers—and demonstrating to students that manufacturing drives innovation, entrepreneurialism and life-changing career opportunities—the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Industries of Arkansas are supporting the next generation of builders and creators,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “Through the Be Pro Be Proud initiative, they are inspiring students and delivering solutions for employers. The NAM congratulates Randy and the entire organization for their innovative leadership and tireless commitment to strengthening America’s manufacturing workforce.”

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org

Washington, D.C. – With Congress delivering the win of a generation for manufacturing and President Donald Trump set to sign the tax bill into law later today, the National Association of Manufacturers is rolling out a new video celebrating the champions who made the One Big, Beautiful Manufacturing Law happen. The video brings to life the energy, pride and determination of an industry that never stops working for America—and now has Washington delivering more manufacturing tax priorities in a historic law that our industry championed from Day One. It’s a thank you to the leaders who listened to manufacturers and achieved real results that will protect and create jobs, bolster investments and strengthen communities nationwide.

Today, an energized and gratified industry—powered by the 13 million people who make things in America—congratulate the president, the administration and Congress for making this Independence Day one to remember. Because when manufacturing wins, so does our great nation.

Background

Prior to final passage, the NAM activated manufacturers in America—engaging shop floor workers, plant managers, executives and state and local partners nationwide­—as part of the “Manufacturing Wins” campaign. With a coordinated public advocacy campaign, which included outreach to congressional offices both in district and in Washington, targeted social media drives, video testimonials and local media op-eds, the NAM made the case for this bill directly to members of Congress and the American people. These collective voices underscored how preserving and expanding key tax provisions translates into growing businesses, creating jobs and powering stronger communities.

On Monday, more than 300 manufacturing leaders from across the country signed onto a letter urging Congress to act immediately to pass historic tax legislation that will enable manufacturers in America to thrive. Leading up to the vote, manufacturers from across the country joined the NAM in a full-court press on Capitol Hill, including a key meeting with Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender. They delivered one message: get this across the goal line for American jobs.

In January, the NAM released a landmark EY study on the economic consequences of failing to renew the pro-manufacturing provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by the end of 2025. The NAM was joined by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-ID), House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) for a Capitol Hill press conference highlighting the study.

Key facts on the economic consequences of failing to preserve tax reform:

• 5.9 million lost jobs
• $540 billion reduction in employee compensation
• $1.1 trillion shortfall in U.S. GDP

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

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Washington, D.C. – Following House final passage of the tax bill, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement:

“Today marks a historic victory for the 13 million people who make things in America. This is a manufacturers’ bill—through and through.

“None of this was inevitable. It’s the result of years of serious, sincere partnership between our nation’s manufacturers and our elected leaders. From the shop floors of small businesses to the headquarters of global companies, from plant managers and line workers to members of Congress and the administration, this achievement reflects what’s possible when policymakers choose to work with manufacturers.

“Manufacturers are especially grateful to President Trump, Vice President Vance, Speaker Johnson, Majority Leader Scalise, Majority Whip Emmer, Conference Chair McClain and Ways and Means Chairman Smith for their steadfast leadership. Their commitment to our industry—and to the men and women who make things in America—was essential to get this done. They listened to manufacturers, stood by us and delivered real results.”

“When leaders partner with manufacturers, good things happen for our country—because manufacturing is nonpartisan and bipartisan. To invest in manufacturing is to invest in America—in communities in every state and of every size. While this bill passed on a party-line vote, manufacturers all across America, in red states and blue states, swing districts and safe districts, look forward to putting people to work, more factories into motion, more innovation into the market, more products onto our shelves and more prosperity into our communities. Taken together, this strengthens the hand of the United States on the world stage. That’s exactly what this bill helps to deliver.

“This Congress and this administration understand that a stronger manufacturing sector means a stronger America. We will continue to work with our nation’s leaders to realize and celebrate the benefits of a comprehensive manufacturing strategy that includes not only further tax reforms but also trade, energy, workforce development and modernized regulations.

“Because one of the greatest investments our leaders can make for the American people is an investment in manufacturing—the industry that powers our shared prosperity.”

Background

Prior to final passage, the NAM activated manufacturers in America—engaging shop floor workers, plant managers, executives and state and local partners nationwide­—as part of the “Manufacturing Wins” campaign. With a coordinated public advocacy campaign, which included outreach to congressional offices both in district and in Washington, targeted social media drives, video testimonials and local media op-eds, the NAM made the case for this bill directly to members of Congress and the American people. These collective voices underscored how preserving and expanding key tax provisions translates into growing businesses, creating jobs and powering stronger communities.

On Monday, more than 300 manufacturing leaders from across the country signed onto a letter urging Congress to act immediately to pass historic tax legislation that will enable manufacturers in America to thrive. Leading up to the vote, manufacturers from across the country joined the NAM in a full-court press on Capitol Hill, including a key meeting with Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender. They delivered one message: get this across the goal line for American jobs.

In January, the NAM released a landmark EY study on the economic consequences of failing to renew the pro-manufacturing provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act by the end of 2025. The NAM was joined by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-ID), House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) for a Capitol Hill press conference highlighting the study.

Key facts on the economic consequences of failing to preserve tax reform:

• 5.9 million lost jobs
• $540 billion reduction in employee compensation
• $1.1 trillion shortfall in U.S. GDP

-NAM-

The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – Following Senate passage of the tax bill, National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement:

“The Senate just pushed the ball deep into the red zone. Now it’s the House’s turn to finish the drive and deliver a big win for manufacturers in America. The Senate advanced a tax package that will strengthen small businesses, family-owned operations and manufacturing workers across the country. It drives manufacturers closer to the goal line—growing businesses, creating jobs and powering stronger communities.

“After months of driving, months of endurance and effort, months of playing audacious offense and tenacious defense, months of partnership between manufacturers of every industry and our leaders in Congress and the administration, the House now can finish the job. We call on our partners in the House to send this bill to the president’s desk—the strongest tax bill for manufacturers we have seen in a generation. Because when Congress champions the 13 million people who make things in America, manufacturing wins—and when manufacturing wins, America wins.”

Background

A full-team push: Today, more than 300 manufacturing leaders from across the country signed onto a letter urging Congress to act immediately to pass historic tax legislation that will enable manufacturers in America to thrive. Leading up to the vote, manufacturers from across the country joined the NAM in a full-court press on Capitol Hill, including a key meeting with Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender. They delivered one message: get this across the goal line for American jobs. Watch the recap.

Calling the plays: Timmons appeared on Bloomberg’s “Balance of Power” urging passage to give manufacturers the certainty they need to keep building and investing.

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org

Washington, D.C. – In advance of the Senate vote on passage of the tax bill, NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement:

“This is a manufacturers’ bill—through and through. It reflects the priorities that manufacturers across the country have long championed: policies that drive growth, boost competitiveness, strengthen communities and support good-paying jobs.

“This bill is strong because the partnership behind it is strong. Our nation’s leaders have listened to America’s manufacturers—positioning our industry to lead and succeed like never before. And that means more prosperity for the United States. With enthusiasm for this achievement and gratitude for our advocates in Congress, we call on our partners in the Senate to finish the job.”

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement thanking President Donald Trump and Secretary Scott Bessent for achieving a monumental deal with G-7 allies that the OECD Pillar 2 taxes will not apply to U.S. companies, laying the groundwork to remove the harmful Section 899 proposal from the pro-manufacturing One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

“In a massive triumph for manufacturing in America, Treasury Secretary Bessent announced a deal to protect both domestic and foreign-headquartered manufacturers investing in the United States from oppressive, job-killing taxes. The NAM—which yesterday brought together manufacturers of all sizes to meet with Deputy Secretary Michael Faulkender to discuss the importance of countering OECD Pillar 2 and preventing the harm of Section 899—congratulates President Trump for this outstanding deal.

“Today’s deal is a win for manufacturing and a win for America. Manufacturers thank Secretary Bessent, Deputy Secretary Faulkender and the Trump administration for reaching this historic deal to shield manufacturers in America from damaging foreign taxes that unfairly stifle job creation in the U.S.

“Manufacturers have long raised concerns about the overreaching and extraterritorial nature of OECD Pillar 2. We greatly appreciate Chairman Jason Smith and Chairman Mike Crapo for their commitment to defending manufacturers in the U.S. from discriminatory foreign taxes. Companies of all sizes across our industry will benefit from the Trump administration removing the threat of these damaging tax burdens.

“Today’s announcement also paves the way for the House and the Senate to lift the threat that Section 899 poses to foreign-headquartered manufacturers’ ability to invest and create jobs in America. Manufacturers have been working with Congress to ensure that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is maximally beneficial for manufacturing investment in America, and today’s announcement is a crucial step in that direction.

“It’s now time for the Senate to vote and for the House to send this bill to President Trump’s desk by July 4.”

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – The Senate Finance Committee today unveiled its version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—preserving the core of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement:

“Chairman Crapo and the Senate Finance Committee are delivering the kind of tax policy manufacturers have been calling for—policy that drives growth, unlocks investment and grows jobs. We commend Chairman Crapo for his leadership and steadfast commitment to pro-manufacturing tax policy. By preserving the full suite of pro-growth policies from the TCJA, this bill marks a major step forward for manufacturing in America.

“Manufacturers also want to ensure that the tax code continues to support inbound investment into the United States as well as preserve incentives that drive investments in the manufacturing and energy production needed to power America’s economic growth. If the Senate acts now, manufacturers can continue to grow—buying equipment, hiring workers, increasing pay and expanding operations with greater certainty and confidence.

“The Finance Committee recognizes what’s at stake: nearly 6 million jobs and more than a trillion dollars in economic output depend on getting this right.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lock in a manufacturing resurgence in the U.S. Let’s finish the job—because when manufacturing wins, America wins.”

Background:

The Senate bill contains key NAM priorities, including:

• A permanent pass-through deduction and retention of pro-growth individual and corporate tax rates;
• Permanence for pro-growth tax policies like immediate R&D expensing, full expensing for capital equipment purchases and a pro-growth interest deductibility standard;
• An expanded and permanent estate tax exemption;
• Pro-manufacturing reforms to the international tax system that protect America’s competitiveness on the world stage; and
• A first-of-its-kind incentive allowing immediate expensing of the cost of new factories and modernizations.

Last week, the NAM released a report, “Keeping Our Promises: Manufacturers on Eight Years of Tax Reform,” featuring firsthand success stories from manufacturers on how the TCJA enabled them to invest in their facilities, their workers and their communities. Learn more about the NAM’s Manufacturing Wins campaign to protect 2017 tax reform here.

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – As manufacturers call on Congress to urgently pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the National Association of Manufacturers released a report today, “Keeping Our Promises: Manufacturers on Eight Years of Tax Reform,” that highlights the transformative impact of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on manufacturing in the U.S. From small family-run operations to global enterprises, the report shows how manufacturers delivered on their promises to invest, hire and grow, thanks to the savings from tax reform. It also warns of the serious risks to jobs and growth if pro-manufacturing tax policies are allowed to expire.

“The evidence is clear: manufacturing had its best job creation in more than two decades, the strongest wage growth in 15 years and significant investment in capital equipment after the passage of the TCJA in 2017,” said NAM Executive Vice President Erin Streeter. “But several of these tax provisions have expired already—and the rest are scheduled to sunset at the end of this year—putting at risk 6 million American jobs, more than $500 billion in wages and benefits and more than $1 trillion in GDP.”

The report features firsthand accounts from manufacturers like Westminster Tool, Click Bond, Ketchie, Gentex, Winton Machine, Jamison Door Company and more that transformed tax reform savings into tangible investments in the future, leveraging tax reform to:

• Raise wages and expand benefits;
• Invest in advanced machinery and technology;
• Strengthen R&D and innovation;
• Build new facilities and expand existing ones; and
• Create jobs and economic opportunity in their communities.

“This is a success story we’re proud to share—told through the experiences of manufacturers that delivered on their commitments and backed by research that reinforces what they’ve witnessed firsthand over the past eight years: tax reform worked,” Streeter added. “Congress faces a straightforward choice to make the TCJA’s manufacturing-empowering provisions permanent, or risk undermining the foundation of our economic competitiveness.”

Read the full report and manufacturing success stories from across the country here.

Learn more about the NAM’s Manufacturing Wins campaign to protect 2017 tax reform here.

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.

Washington, D.C. – In response to the EPA’s decision to repeal the 2024 power plant rule, a key priority for the National Association of Manufacturers’ ongoing efforts to rebalance federal regulations and unleash American energy, NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons issued the following statement:

“The EPA’s decision to repeal the unworkable power plant rule for existing coal-fired and new natural gas-fired power plants is a critical and welcome step toward rebalanced regulations and American energy dominance. This change will strengthen grid reliability and support manufacturing growth in the United States.

“From the onset, the NAM has warned that this rule would undermine the stability of our electric grid and impose unworkable mandates on critical energy infrastructure. The rule’s unrealistic timeline for power plants to adopt certain emerging technologies to commercial scale made it infeasible—undermining America’s energy security and hampering America’s leadership in next generation technologies like AI. Existing natural gas plants are critical to powering manufacturing in the United States—providing affordable, reliable baseload energy to continuously support industry. By layering new regulations on an already overburdened electric grid, the rule was putting our energy security at risk. Repealing this unbalanced rule will enhance manufacturers’ access to America’s abundant energy resources and ensure that the industry has the power it needs to drive the American economy.”

Background: Today’s action builds on the momentum from a December 2024 NAM-led letter to the transition team, signed by more than 100  manufacturing organizations, detailing regulatory actions the incoming administration could take to right-size regulations that stunted manufacturing growth and job creation—including the power plant rule. It also implements one of the key recommendations from the letter the NAM sent to 10 federal agencies in April, including the EPA,  identifying the power plant rule as one of the most burdensome regulations facing manufacturers and urging a rebalanced approach to strengthen, rather than strain, U.S. manufacturing. Last year, the NAM endorsed Rep. Balderson’s (OH-12) Congressional Review Act resolution that would have blocked implementation of this rule.

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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.93 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for 53% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.