Protectionism

Protectionism / Buy American

Protectionism

The California Chamber of Commerce has supported a number of state and federal programs, but it should be noted that the Chamber also dissuades the introduction of legislation that is unnecessary, unconstitutional or violates existing trade agreements.

The Chamber:

  • Opposes protectionist-oriented legislation that will result in higher prices to the consumer for the specific product protected and in limited choices of products for consumers. Protectionist legislation causes a net loss of jobs in related industries, retaliation by our trading partners, and violates provisions of the World Trade Organization, as well as, bilateral free trade agreements.
  • Opposes state and local legislation that imposes sanctions on businesses that are engaged in trade with foreign countries and/or conflict with federal international policies.
  • Supports legislation to allow California companies to compete more effectively in foreign markets, as well as to attract foreign business to California.

Executive Order on Ensuring the Future Is Made in All of America by All of America’s Workers
White House, January 25, 2021

FACT SHEET: President Biden to Sign Executive Order Strengthening Buy American Provisions, Ensuring Future of America is Made in America by All of America’s Workers
White House, January 25, 2021

Q&A on “Buy American” Policies
U.S. Chamber, January 26, 2021

2009 Amendments to Federal Jobs Bill

Joint Letter to Congress Opposing Buy American Proposals 12.16.09

Joint Letter to Congress Opposing Buy American Proposals 1.27.10

Letter from CalChamber President Allan Zaremberg to the USTR regarding Section 1605 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: “Buy American” Provisions 12.15.2009

The Cost of Buy American Mandates on American Jobs
U.S. Chamber Report, February 17, 2010

Report on “Buy American” in the Recovery Act
Government Accountability Office, February 2010

Joint Letter to Congress Opposing Buy American Proposals 10.6.11

U.S. – Canada Procurement Agreement
February 5, 2010

The United States and Canada have reached a tentative agreement on government procurement.
The agreement is subject to completion of our respective domestic approval processes.