Manufacturing

Background

Following the recent establishment of the Manufacturing Council of Oregon (MCO) and leveraging the momentum created by the inaugural statewide Manufacturing and Innovation Roadshow, OBI will maintain its focus on pro-manufacturing advocacy. OBI/MCO recognizes the vital importance of manufacturing in Oregon. Manufacturers create high-paying jobs and equitable opportunities for Oregon workers and their families. This sector also contributes to a thriving economic and business climate that produces significant revenue for critical public services.

OBI/MCO’s broad mission is to protect, promote and grow a positive, globally competitive business climate for manufacturing and related industries throughout Oregon. Through the MCO, OBI will continue to work with a broad base of stakeholders, makers and innovators to provide opportunities, remove barriers and create the jobs that fuel Oregon’s economy and support its quality of life.

Policy Principles

Competitive Environment: OBI seeks to ensure that Oregon provides a sustainable, globally competitive environment that supports a diverse manufacturing sector by fostering capital investment, innovation, research and development, education, employment opportunity, workforce training and supply-chain resiliency.

Taxes and Regulations: OBI will promote a tax and regulatory environment that encourages manufacturing investment, innovation and growth.

Infrastructure Improvements: OBI will promote local, state and regional infrastructure improvements to facilitate shipping, surface transportation and port access and throughput to enhance access to regional, national and global markets.

Education and Workforce: OBI seeks to improve career manufacturing employment opportunities by supporting enhanced investment in career and technical education and by promoting collaboration among employers, educational institutions and workforce programs.

Sustainable Practices: OBI will promote sustainable practices, including land-use and energy policies, that ensure Oregon manufacturers will have cost-effective access to the resources necessary to compete in regional and global markets.

Intellectual Property: OBI supports policies that protect manufacturers’ intellectual property and proprietary information.