Governor Signs Buy American Legislation, a Priority Issue for the New York State AFL-CIO

Albany -Passing Buy American legislation has been one of the priority issues for the New York State AFL-CIO. Today, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed the job creating bill into law.

“This is a tremendous victory for the labor movement, as well as the citizens and taxpayers of this state,” said Mario Cilento, president of the New York State AFL-CIO.

“This is a huge investment in the men and women who build our roads and bridges. This legislation ensures our hard-earned tax dollars are invested right back into our own workforce and not sent overseas,” Cilento said.

Major state agencies and authorities must now use American-made iron and steel in projects worth more than $1 million.

“This new law will maintain and create good jobs by requiring structural steel and iron used in the construction of state roads and bridges be made in America. This will go a long way toward revitalizing the manufacturing industry in this country and right here in New York State. In addition, the newly created manufacturing jobs will pump more dollars into the local economy supporting small businesses. The additional tax revenue from those small businesses build up the local tax base that strengthens communities by supporting vital services like education, health care and public safety.

“We thank Governor Cuomo for prioritizing Buy American legislation and commend him for setting the standard for the rest of the country to follow. He understands the importance of investing in our skilled workforce and sending a strong statement about the commitment we have as a state to companies that manufacture and operate here, and hire New York workers.

“We also thank Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and IDC Leader Jeff Klein for their leadership on this important issue.

“This victory would also not have been possible without the unwavering support of the bill sponsors, Senator Robach and Assemblyman Morelle who went above and beyond to ensure Buy American becomes law,” Cilento said.