Bill > HR2664

This bill, titled the "Made in America Act of 2013," directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a voluntary program called the "America Star Program" to certify products that meet specific standards for being manufactured in the United States. The program will involve the creation of "America Star labels" by the Secretary, which will clearly indicate to consumers the extent to which a product is made domestically, with the goals of providing clarity, encouraging domestic manufacturing, and highlighting its economic importance. Manufacturers can apply for certification, and the Secretary will review products to determine if they meet the label's standards, with provisions for monitoring and withdrawal of certification if standards are no longer met. The bill also outlines prohibited conduct, such as using the label without certification, and establishes penalties for violations, including civil penalties and a five-year ineligibility for certification for manufacturers who make false statements or knowingly misrepresent their products. The Secretary can contract with private entities to carry out certain program functions and is required to consult with the Federal Trade Commission and private sector companies to ensure consistency and best practices. The program will be funded through reasonable fees collected from manufacturers applying for or holding certifications.