Huizenga Introduces Bipartisan Legislation To Boost Small Business, Reform Government Run Amok

Statement

Washington, DC -- Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) announced the introduction of H.R. 2098, The Federal Prison Industries Competition in Contracting Act of 2013, the first step in a new approach to reforming Federal Prison Industries/UNICOR:

"Millions of Americans remain out of work, many through no fault of their own," said Huizenga. "As small businesses continue to struggle in the current economic environment, one thing they shouldn't have to worry about is their own government using prison labor to drive them out of business. The Federal Prison Industries Act of 2013 levels the playing field for private sector job creators by eliminating UNICOR's 'no-bid' contract status and forcing this government-owned behemoth to compete and operate in the same manner as private industry. Additionally, this legislation forces UNICOR to meet federal health and safety standards and pay a market rate for the production of goods and services provided. If UNICOR is going to act like a business, it must play by the same set of rules as a business. The status quo affords UNICOR a unique competitive advantage that simply should not exist. It's time to get the government working for people, not taking their jobs."

Lead Democrat cosponsor Carolyn Maloney (NY-12) released the following statement in support of H.R. 2098: "This bill we are introducing--versions of which I have sponsored or co-sponsored over the last dozen years-- will require the Federal Prison Industries' brands to compete with private-sector businesses on a level playing field," Rep. Maloney said. "It should improve the ability of private companies to win contracts for government work and it will improve the working conditions of FPI employees. It's a win-win for everyone involved."

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