Oregon Senate gives go-ahead to Pacific Northwest Manufacturing Partnership

(SALEM, Ore.) — The Senate approved legislation this morning creating the Pacific Northwest Manufacturing Partnership Advisory Committee (PNMP), a consortium dedicated to accelerating the resurgence of manufacturing in the region.

“Manufacturing has long been a major industry in my district,” said Senator Chris Edwards (D-Eugene/Junction City), chief sponsor of Senate Bill 482. “As our economy recovers, it’s critical that we focus our attention on what manufacturers need to compete, expand and create good family wage jobs.”

The PNMP will sit within Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency. Staff in the department will focus on facilitating regional collaboration among the manufacturing sector by working with relevant education and research institutions.

“Our colleges and universities are important partners in our economic recovery,” said Senator Sara Gelser (D-Corvallis/Albany), also a chief sponsor of the bill. “The Pacific Northwest Manufacturing Partnership will help us create an ecosystem that supports our regional manufacturers.”

The PNMP was formed in response to a federal initiative to accelerate the resurgence of manufacturing in the U.S. The Partnership includes interests from throughout SW Washington, the Willamette Valley, and the Columbia River Corridors. Individual members include cities, counties, community colleges, universities, research institutions, and multiple economic development and workforce organizations.

“Strengthening Oregon businesses and creating family wage jobs is a key component of the Oregon Senate Democrats’ agenda for 2015,” said Senate Majority Leader Diane Rosenbaum (D-Portland). “This is a small step toward the work we need to do this session to help rebuild our economy and create jobs that can support Oregon families.”

SB 482 will now go to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Source: Senate Majority Office Oregon State Legislature