Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Manzullo amendment to apply the Berry Amendment to homeland security procurement.  This is a common-sense and proven step to create American jobs and reward American companies.

For thirty years, the Berry Amendment has protected critical defense-related industries in this country.  It has helped to preserve manufacturing, textile and other American jobs, allowed domestic companies to flourish, and provided our armed forces with high-quality products that keep our military prepared and equipped to be the best in the world.

Having served America so well for defense procurement, it makes perfect sense that the Berry Amendment should now be extended to homeland security.  U.S. companies have been instrumental in ongoing efforts to protect airports, equip first responders, deploy cutting-edge technology to hospitals, and so much more.  Rewarding their patriotism and hard work with procurement protections is the right thing to do.

I also want to note that the Manzullo Amendment would allow waivers of the Berry Amendment when needed items cannot be procured domestically and would not place any of our current or future homeland security operations at risk.  What it would do is say to American companies and American workers that we appreciate their efforts and welcome their partnership as we work to protect our citizens. 

The Berry Amendment is a tested means of supporting domestic businesses while they support us.  I hope my colleagues will support Congressman Manzullo’s amendment and extend this important provision to homeland security procurement as well.