Tester Introduces Bill to Strengthen Montana Manufacturing, Create Jobs, Keep Nation Safe

At Bozeman’s Mystery Ranch, Senator Unveils Legislation to Require Homeland Security Department to Purchase Uniforms and Equipment from American Manufacturers

(Bozeman, Mont.) – During his visit to a Montana manufacturing company today, U.S. Senator Jon Tester announced he will be introducing legislation to create jobs and better equip American law enforcement officers by requiring the Department of Homeland Security to purchase supplies from American manufacturers.

Tester’s bill, the Strengthening Security and American Manufacturing Act, will require the Department of Homeland Security to buy clothing, equipment, and other textile materials for their law enforcement officers from American producers.

“We should supply the folks who keep this country safe with equipment that was manufactured here in America,” Tester said at Bozeman’s Mystery Ranch Backpacks. “This bill will ensure that American-made products equip the folks who patrol our borders, protect our airports, and keep our communities safe.”

Tester unveiled his bill alongside Mystery Ranch co-owner Dana Gleason in Bozeman. Mystery Ranch manufactures backpacks for Navy Seals and other Special Forces units in the U.S. military.

“We want to thank Jon Tester for promoting Montana manufacturers and advocating for American-made products,” Gleason said. “This bill will help us create more jobs and we would be proud to equip Homeland Security officials with our top-notch, American made packs.”

Tester’s bill specifically requires the Department of Homeland Security to purchase uniforms, footwear, tents, field packs, and other textile-based equipment from American manufacturers. It provides exceptions for small and emergency purchases, products unavailable from American manufacturers, and certain commercially available textile products.

Law enforcement agencies that are organized at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security include Customs and Border Patrol, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Transportation Safety Administration.

You can view and download a summary of the the bill HERE.