EFC Integral to the Success of the Buy American Outcome

For Immediate Release

TORONTO, ONTARIO - February 10, 2010 – Electro-Federation Canada took the lead in pushing for an amendment to the Buy American clause U.S. President Barack Obama brought into law on February 17, 2009 as part of the $787 billion stimulus package. EFC and its members joined together in a manufacturing coalition spearheaded by The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) and co-signed a brief requested by the Prime Minister back in May of 2009 as part of the negotiation process.  

The efforts of EFC and its members were rewarded when on February 3rd the Buy American Act of 2009 was amended to ease the clause allowing Canadian exporters access to state and local public works projects in a range of programs as it relates to funds remaining in seven programs under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  

Furthermore, barriers have been reduced for Canadian companies from exporter restrictions beyond the Buy American Act and include a “Fast-track” provision that would help resolve disputes should similar Buy American provisions be applied to future legislation. EFC is prepared to quickly deal with similar protectionist measures that arise in order to provide its members access to fair competition.  

“This deal solidifies the importance Canadian companies play in the US economy”, Milos Jancik, President of EFC reported, “and allows our industry to once again access opportunities that will only strengthen both the US and Canadian economies”. EFC will continue to play an integral role in the negotiations along with other key industry organizations.  

-30-