Statement of New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento on Buy American Agreement

Albany - “This is a victory for all New Yorkers. Requiring American made iron and steel products for New York's roads and bridges is a wise investment for the future of our economy. "Buy American, will create and maintain solid middle-class jobs, strengthen local economies and give a much needed shot in the arm to the manufacturing industry right here at home in New York. It ensures our hard-earned tax dollars are not sent overseas and are invested back into our own workforce. “We thank Governor Cuomo for setting the standard for the rest of the country by prioritizing Buy American legislation. 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 Klein for their leadership on this important issue. ”This victory would also not have been possible without the unwavering support of the bill sponsors, Sen. Robach and Assemblyman Morelle who went above and beyond to ensure Buy American becomes law."  

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The New York State AFL-CIO is a federation of 3,000 affiliated public sector, private sector, and building trades unions throughout the state representing 2.5 million members, retirees and their families. Our State Federation, which is the largest and most diverse in the country, is committed to helping working families achieve a better life. For more information on the Labor Movement in New York, visit www.nysaflcio.org.