Build America Buy America Act Resource Guide Available
The Build America Buy America Act (BABAA), enacted as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law in November 2021, requires U.S. produced materials be used when spending federal funds to build, alter, repair or maintain infrastructure projects.
For example, a nonprofit organization applies for a grant through the Clean Vessel Act program for more discharge boats; therefore, the recipient may ask marine manufacturers for a compliance letter ensuring the product is compliant with BABAA requirements.
The NMMA has developed a resource guide for manufacturers as well as the entities applying for certain federal grants through the BABAA program. BABAA applies to federal financial assistance programs for infrastructure to encourage more domestic procurement of products and materials for infrastructure projects; thus, it has specific requirements related to the manufacturing of products in the United States.
The document includes additional resources comparing “Buy American” and BABAA to help answer further questions. To ensure proper compliance with BABAA requirements, it’s recommended to consult with legal experts and/or compliance specialists.Additionally, collaboration with the relevant federal agency overseeing the grant can help entities navigate the specific requirements of a project.
NMMA will continue monitoring the implementation of initiatives as the administration continues rolling out new programs. For more information, contact Clay Crabtree, NMMA's director of federal government relations, at [email protected].