Currently there is much focus in the construction industry on government construction projects, as many of them are being funded by economic stimulus dollars. There are two federal acts involved in government-funded projects that contain provisions that are favorable to material manufactured in the Unites States.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) dedicated $787 billion dollars toward economic stimulus, with over $60 billion focused on modernization and construction projects. Within the ARRA there are "Buy American" provisions that are preferential to materials manufactured in the U.S., however the Act contains provisions that allow the use of non-domestic product on some projects if the proper waivers are obtained.

The Buy American Act of 1933

The Buy American Act (BAA) was originally adopted as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal economic programs. This Act typically pertains to all government construction projects and is also preferential to products manufactured domestically, but also includes provisions for foreign–made products on some projects if the proper waivers are obtained.. This Act does not apply to government projects that are funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Simpson Strong-Tie Qualifies

All Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, prefabricated shearwalls, moment frames and Anchor Tiedown Systems (ATS) are manufactured in the Unites States. In response to increased competition over the past 10 years most fastener manufacturers have moved production overseas, and Simpson Strong-Tie is no exception. Therefore some products in our fastener line, including many fasteners and Quik Drive tools are manufactured overseas.

Products from Designated Foreign Countries

There are provisions in both the ARRA and BAA that allow products manufactured in designated countries to be used on some projects covered by these Acts. Designated countries include those that fall under the World Trade Organization Government Procurement Agreement (WTO GPA), Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

Agreement between U.S. and Canada on Government Procurement or the U.S. – European Communities Exchange of Letters (May 15, 1995).

Please call 800 999 5099 to talk with a Buy America specialist for more information.