This Just In: Real Movement Toward A U.S. National Manufacturing Strategy

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Manufacturing Strategy Act of 2011, H.R. 1366 with a bipartisan vote.

The Ohio Manufacturers Association gave this summary:

"The act would require the Commerce Secretary to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the nation’s manufacturing sector and submit to Congress a 'National Manufacturing Strategy.' The goals of the strategy are to 'increase manufacturing jobs, identify emerging technologies to strengthen U.S. competitiveness, and strengthen the manufacturing sectors in which the U.S. is most competitive.'"

Though I have written about the need for a National Manufacturing Policy many times over the past few years, I haven't been hopeful that any real steps would be taken until after the Presidential election and the next President's term.  Though this bill is not the policy, it is a strong, symbolic start.  So, count me among the surprised.
Immediately one thought:  Ohio can lead the way.

Ohio's U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown is sponsor of the Senate version of the bill.  He's called for its Senate passage of the Act.

The bill requires a Presidential Manufacturing Strategy Board.  Ohio Governor Kasich, given Ohio's pre-eminent manufacturing capacity, should be named to one of the two gubernatorial seats on that important Board should the Act become law.

Here we go!