River Bend Times

WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) have put forth the bipartisan Opportunities for Non-developed Sites to Have Opportunities to be Rehabilitated for Economic Development (ONSHORE) Act aimed at bolstering manufacturing jobs and facilities.

Miller-Meeks emphasized the bill's significance, stating, “By establishing the Critical Supply Chain Site Development grant program, we're investing in the revitalization of communities, fostering economic growth, and fortifying our domestic supply chains.” She further highlighted that the program would not only attract investment and create jobs but also safeguard the nation's strategic interests and economic security.

Sorensen echoed the importance of manufacturing, noting, “Manufacturing is the heartbeat of what keeps our economy strong and our communities thriving.” He expressed the need for assistance in attracting manufacturing companies to Illinois, emphasizing the potential for sustainable job creation.

Ryan Sempf, Executive Director of Government Affairs for the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the challenges faced in attracting investments due to a lack of ready land and buildings. He emphasized the potential impact of the ONSHORE Act in allowing communities to compete for projects and supporting reshoring efforts in critical supply chain industries.

The ONSHORE Act proposes the establishment of the Critical Supply Chain Site Development Grant Program, which will provide grants to prepare sites for strategically important manufacturing projects. These grants will cover expenses like connecting sites to public utilities, completing environmental reviews, investing in workforce training programs, and other necessary preparations. Industries eligible for these grants will be determined by the Secretary of Commerce.

For more details on the bill, the full text can be accessed here.