Bill Positions

Bill Number: HB 28

Bill Title: Procurement - Purchase of Apparel Produced in the United States

Bill Sponsor(s): Delegate Benson

Subject: Procurement

Committee: HGO

Bill Summary: This bill would require public bodies, when renting or purchasing clothing or linens, to require that all such apparel be produced in the United States. The bill also requires that vendors must supply detailed information under oath regarding the name, address, and officers of each subcontractor used on an apparel contract.

Chamber Position: Oppose

Position Summary: This bill would place unnecessary reporting burdens on vendors bidding on state apparel contracts and needlessly inflate the cost of state apparel rental and acquisition. The state should encourage additional foreign trade, not enact protectionist measures that will damage economic development efforts.

Position Statement: Click here to download a pdf version of the Maryland Chamber's position statement.

Chamber Staff: Ron Wineholt

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.