Kissell's Textile Amendment Clears Senate Committee Hurdle

Press Release

An important part of Representative Larry Kissell's ongoing legislative efforts to protect U.S. textile jobs took a major step forward last week as his amendment to the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act passed the Senate Armed Services Committee. Kissell's amendment would ensure that taxpayer dollars are not used to purchase foreign-made yarns or fabrics to be used in the manufacture of uniforms for the Afghan National Army or the Afghan National Police.

"This is a common sense measure that will protect taxpayer money and protect American textile jobs," said Kissell. "In any instance where taxpayer dollars are being spent, our government should ensure that every possible step is taken to promote America's interests ahead of anyone else's. It is ridiculous that this loophole even exists, but I'm glad we were able to identify it and go to work on fixing it with bi-partisan support in the House and the Senate."

Kissell's amendment was introduced in the Senate Armed Services Committee by Senator Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.) and Senator Kay Hagan (D-N.C.). The measure was approved by the full committee on Thursday.

"Folks here in the Carolinas understand the importance of fighting for the textile industry and they understand that taxpayer money should never be used to buy flawed goods from countries such as China or Vietnam when we can make them here at home," said Kissell. "I'm glad this legislation has taken another step toward becoming the law of the land, and I thank Senators Graham and Hagan for their leadership in moving this common sense concept forward."

The Senate will consider the full 2013 National Defense Authorization Act in the coming weeks. The companion legislation, including Kissell's amendment, passed the House last week.

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