Defend American Manufacturing Act

HR 2832, the Defend American Manufacturing Act, mandates that the U.S. Department of Commerce continue funding the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (HMEP) program in all 50 states and Puerto Rico through fiscal year 2025 and beyond. It requires the Commerce Secretary to competitively renew and award HMEP centers annually, changing the current language from "may" to "shall" to make this funding requirement mandatory. The bill directly affects small and mid-sized manufacturers by ensuring ongoing access to technical assistance, training, and resources through state-based centers. This policy change solidifies the program’s structure without introducing new taxes, regulations, or eligibility criteria.