The Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) and the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) are combining their federal government advocacy programs to promote U.S. government policies that will ensure a strong manufacturing sector in the United States. PMA and NTMA each have had active advocacy programs for many years and will now implement a coordinated, joint federal advocacy effort while maintaining their status as separate organizations. Together, industries represented by PMA and NTMA employ nearly 1 million and have combined sales in excess of $130 billion.
The Franklin Partnership LLP, a bipartisan government relations firm that provides comprehensive legislative affairs and public policy services, has been engaged by NTMA and PMA to support this joint advocacy program for the 111th Congress. The Franklin Partnership’s base includes large and small manufacturing companies, manufacturing trade associations, municipal governments, defense contractors, hospitals and medical research facilities, among others.
“Manufacturing is the backbone of America, and if we want this sector not only to survive, but thrive, we need to assert our priorities in Washington, D.C., as effectively as possible. We are very excited about the credibility and impact that our joint advocacy effort will bring to manufacturing issues in Washington,” said Roy Sweatman, NTMA’s 2008 chairman.
Key issues for the 111th Congress include defeating Employee Free Choice legislation (card check) which would rob employees of the right to a secret ballot in determining whether they wish to be represented by a union; and, advocating for permanent R&D tax credit; affordable health care choices for small-middle-market companies; corporate tax changes ensuring a strong manufacturing base in America; effective federal support for education in the skilled trades; enforcement of trade laws; access by U.S. manufacturers to globally competitive prices for the raw materials needed to manufacture in America; industrial consumer standing in trade cases; and addressing the estate tax issue on a permanent basis.