#United States #Washington #American Foundations #cement production #Common Sense America

Introduction

Today marks the official launch of a pivotal advocacy initiative known as American Foundations, aimed at significantly enhancing the manufacturing capacity of cement within the United States. This initiative is not just about cement; it touches on vital aspects of economic growth, job security, and national infrastructure resilience.

The Need for Domestic Cement Production

In 2024, the United States witnessed a worrying decline in its cement production. Astonishingly, 22% of the cement consumed in the country was imported from other nations. Such a rising dependency on foreign resources poses substantial risks. Without immediate intervention, these trends could erode America's manufacturing base, making the nation susceptible to severe shortages and disruptions in the supply chain for critical infrastructure materials. This could create economic barriers for everyday Americans and hinder developmental progress nationwide.

American Foundations: A Comprehensive Strategy

Launched under the advocacy of Common Sense America, American Foundations is committed to reversing this troubling trend. The initiative emphasizes multiple key goals:

1. Job Protection: By expanding domestic cement production, American Foundations aims to safeguard existing jobs and spur new economic opportunities in local communities.
2. Community Building: Reliable and high-quality cement is vital for constructing essential infrastructure. Roads, bridges, hospitals, and homes must be built on a foundation of dependable materials. The initiative emphasizes that American communities deserve the highest quality cement, free from the risks associated with substandard foreign imports.
3. National Security Enhancement: Cement is classified as a strategic asset and a crucial component of critical infrastructure. The initiative advocates for cement independence to ensure immediate availability and reliability of supplies. This also addresses concerns over the quality and integrity of the infrastructure.
4. Quality Standards Maintenance: Many foreign cement imports fail to meet rigorous international quality standards. The initiative supports purchasing policies that prioritize high-quality, domestically produced cement, thereby safeguarding workers and consumers alike.

Voices from the Initiative

Steve Crim, President of Common Sense America, stated, "Strong domestic cement production is essential for our manufacturing independence, national security, and long-term economic growth. We must act swiftly and decisively to ensure that critical infrastructure across the country — from roads, bridges, and airports to homes and schools — stands on resilient, reliable, American-made cement." This statement underscores the urgency and scope of the initiative's mission, which encompasses the very foundation of American society.

Moving Forward

The American Foundations initiative will rally support at various levels — from community members to stakeholders in the cement industry and policymakers. By engaging in public discourse, technical assessments, and advocacy efforts, the initiative aims to create a robust framework that ensures the supply of high-quality cement for future generations.

Conclusion

In times of increasing global interdependence, American Foundations stands at the forefront of a movement to ensure that America's infrastructure remains resilient, reliable, and built from the ground up with domestic resources. As we embark on this journey, the call for action is clear — to support the production of American-made cement and foster a stronger economy for all.

To learn more about American Foundations and their initiatives, visit strongamericanfoundations.org.