H.R.1721 - Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1721, the Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act, directs the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a study on the feasibility of manufacturing products for critical infrastructure sectors within the United States. The study aims to identify high-demand imported products facing manufacturing constraints, analyze the costs and benefits of domestic manufacturing, and determine the feasibility of manufacturing these products, particularly in rural areas and industrial parks. The Secretary must submit a report to Congress with recommendations and make the report publicly available.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to a comprehensive report detailing the potential for increased domestic manufacturing in critical infrastructure sectors. This could inform future policy decisions aimed at strengthening domestic supply chains and reducing reliance on imports. The study may also highlight specific areas and locations where manufacturing investments could be most effective.
Potential Benefits
- Identification of critical infrastructure products suitable for domestic manufacturing.
- Potential for job creation and economic growth in the United States, especially in rural areas.
- Reduced reliance on foreign supply chains for essential goods.
- Increased resilience of critical infrastructure sectors.
- Enhanced national security through domestic production capabilities.
Potential Disadvantages
- The study itself may incur costs to taxpayers.
- The study's findings may not lead to immediate or concrete action.
- Potential for political disagreements on the implementation of the study's recommendations.
- The study may identify manufacturing as infeasible for certain products, leading to no change.
- The Act does not compel any action beyond the study, so its impact is dependent on future legislation.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. By studying the feasibility of domestic manufacturing for critical infrastructure, the Act aims to strengthen the nation's economic and security interests, which falls within the scope of congressional authority. The act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).