NAM Supports Bush's FY 2007 Budget

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) applauded the proposed spending on math and science teachers, research and technological innovation. The organization  also voiced strong support for current tax relief measures to be made permanent.

NAM President John Engler said "if any new initiative can garner bipartisan support on Capitol Hill in an election year, it out to be one that makes smart investments in education, research and technological developments so vital to America's economic future."

NAM Vice President for Tax and Domestic Economic Policy Dorothy Coleman also supports the proposed budget, citing that it will take time to review all parts of the $2.77 trillion budget. She did note points of concern regarding the proposed Commerce Department funding.

"If improved competitiveness is our goal, it may be penny-wise and pound-foolish to cut the successful Manufacturing Extension Partnership program by more than half" Coleman said. The current budget is $106 million and the proposed budget is $47 million.

Coleman also commented, "history and these more recent data ought to make it clear to everyone by now that spurring robust economic growth with smart, pro-growth tax policy is the proper way to reduce budget deficits over the long haul."