Bill > S2167

This bill aims to promote American manufacturing by requiring state and municipal agencies to use American-made materials in public construction and infrastructure projects valued over $500,000. Specifically, the bill mandates that iron, steel, fabricated steel, and manufactured goods used in public works contracts must be produced in the United States, with some important exceptions. Agencies can request waivers if the materials are not available in sufficient quantities, would significantly increase project costs (by more than 25%), or if compliance would be inconsistent with the public interest. The bill requires agencies to provide public notice and an opportunity for comment on any waiver requests and to publish detailed justifications for granted waivers. Additionally, the legislation imposes strict penalties for intentionally mislabeling or misrepresenting the origin of materials, including making companies ineligible for future state contracts if they are found to have falsely claimed materials are made in the United States. The Attorney General is authorized to enforce these provisions, and the bill includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still stand.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2167