USA Satellite Manufacturing Improved

“Before 1998, the U.S. share of global satellite manufacturing was 75 percent. But over the past 13 years, it has averaged 44 percent because of Congress’ overreaction in shifting commercial satellite export licensing decisions to the highly restrictive munitions list. as explained by Congressman Don Manzullo –R-16^th.District.

The action provided a competitive advantage to foreign satellite makers at the expense of American manufacturers and American workers,” says Manzullo, who Chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific. 

Manzullo explains, “The amendment the House approved – while not perfect – provides a balance that will bolster both our national and economic security and give our satellite manufacturers an opportunity to sell again on a level playing field. I will continue to work on the bill as it heads to the Senate and eventually to conference committee because it will help create American jobs.”

The amendment is similar to bipartisan legislation Manzullo co-authored with Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA) that would restore the President’s ability to determine what export restrictions should apply to commercial satellites and related components, The Safeguarding United States Satellite Leadership and Security Act of 2011

Unanimously approving H.R. 3288 also prohibits any such exports to China, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Sudan, or Cuba.

“Before 1998, the U.S. share of global satellite manufacturing was 75 percent. But over the past 13 years, it has averaged 44 percent because of Congress’ overreaction in shifting commercial satellite export licensing decisions to the highly restrictive munitions list.  That action provided a competitive advantage to foreign satellite makers at the expense of American manufacturers and American workers,” said Manzullo, who Chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific.

“The amendment the House approved today – while not perfect – provides a balance that will bolster both our national and economic security and give our satellite manufacturers an opportunity to sell again on a level playing field. I will continue to work on the bill as it heads to the Senate and eventually to conference committee because it will help create American jobs.