To require the Secretary of Defense to issue regulations requiring that optional combat boots worn by members of the Armed Forces wear be made in America, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 4159, if enacted, would mandate that optional combat boots worn by members of the Armed Forces be manufactured entirely in the United States, using materials also sourced from the United States. This requirement would be implemented through regulations issued by the Secretary of Defense within 730 days of the bill's enactment. The bill includes exemptions for cases where boots are medically necessary or unavailable domestically for specific needs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to shift the sourcing of optional combat boots for military personnel to domestic manufacturers. This could lead to increased demand for American-made boots and materials. Exemptions are provided to ensure that specific needs and medical requirements are still met.
Potential Benefits
- Potential boost to the US manufacturing sector, creating jobs in the production of boots and related materials.
- Reduced reliance on foreign suppliers for military equipment.
- Ensuring quality control and potentially higher standards for combat boots.
- Supporting domestic industries and promoting economic growth within the United States.
- May improve the perception of the quality of goods provided to members of the armed forces.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potentially higher costs for combat boots due to domestic manufacturing requirements.
- Limited availability of specialized materials or boot designs within the United States.
- Possible delays in procurement due to the need to establish domestic supply chains.
- Exemptions may create loopholes or inconsistencies in enforcement.
- Reduced competition among suppliers, potentially leading to less innovation.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional power of Congress to provide for the common defense and raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8). The requirement for domestically produced goods could be seen as an exercise of this power to ensure the readiness and self-sufficiency of the armed forces. However, the bill must also be considered in light of potential Commerce Clause implications if it unduly restricts interstate or international trade.
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).