Perriello Praises Democratic Make It In America Agenda

Congressman Perriello said he is pleased with the passage of the American Trade Deficit Act, which calls for the development of a strategy to close the U.S. trade deficit with the world, as well as looking for ways to stimulate the domestic manufacturing industry.

Another piece of the agenda that passed last week was the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act, which reduces or suspends certain tariffs on American-made products so they are priced more competitively worldwide.

Perriello:  If we give the American worker and American business a level playing field, they will win.  Unfortunately, both parties, I think, have been following a trade policy and a manufacturing policy that essentially rewards companies for doing exactly the opposite, which is to build things overseas.

Perriello said he believes two other programs he has been advocating will also create jobs.  Home Star and Rural Star incentivize the renovation and weatherization of existing homes.  Perriello believes the initiatives will more than pay for themselves.

Perriello:  If we get the incentive right, the private sector can really drive this process.  We’re not just talking about a niche of a few jobs here and there.  I think renovation of existing stock is gonna be a huge part of the construction trade.

Rural Star recently passed through committee in the House, and Perriello believes it could reach the floor for a vote in September.  Home Star has passed the House and Perriello says he is hopeful it can pass the Senate before they adjourn this week.

Craig Carper, WCVE News, Capitol Square