The Toy Association Calls on Congress to Adopt Supply Chain Provisions in Final USICA-COMPETES Bill

May 16, 2022 | With the bill that combines the Senate’s United States Innovation and Competition Act (USICA) with the U.S. House of Representatives’ America COMPETES Act continuing to be finalized, The Toy Association joined 133 industry groups on May 10 in calling on Congress to ensure the inclusion of critical supply chain provisions from the America COMPETES Act.

The letter urged lawmakers to include a provision that would establish a Manufacturing Security and Resilience Program designed to support businesses working to develop, diversify, preserve, and improve critical supply chains and the manufacturing of critical goods. The letter also encouraged Congress to adopt provisions that will authorize the Department of Commerce to conduct comprehensive supply chain mapping and monitoring, provide $45 billion of financial assistance to strengthen supply chains and manufacturing, and equip the private sector with the best practices needed to properly address pre-existing supply chain weaknesses before they become full blown crises.

“The inclusion of these provisions will prove essential in helping to repair the ongoing challenges to U.S. supply chains and the overall economy while also arming businesses with the tool they need to ensure positive changes for the future,” said Steve Pasierb, president & CEO of The Toy Association. “As the small and mid-size companies that make up more than 90 percent of The Toy Association’s membership continue to contend with rising costs and delays, it is crucial Congress incorporate these provisions and move to pass this legislation.”

The Toy Association will continue to provide members with the latest updates on its advocacy efforts on the supply chain crisis.