U.S. Lawmakers Reintroduce FABRIC Act to Revitalize Domestic Apparel Manufacturing and Protect Garment Workers
Representatives Gillibrand and Nadler of New York have reintroduced the FABRIC Act in Congress for the third time. This legislation aims to stimulate domestic apparel manufacturing in the United States and enhance protections for garment workers. The bill seeks to address the decline in U.S. apparel manufacturing, which largely shifted overseas starting in the 1980s due to brands seeking cheaper production costs. The latest iteration of the FABRIC Act includes a significantly increased financial authorization, proposing $100 million in funding for domestic manufacturing grants. A key component of the bill is its focus on preventing 'wage theft' by addressing the misuse of piece-pay rates and making brands liable for unpaid wages. This initiative follows California's Garment Worker Protection Act, enacted in January 2022, which improved conditions for garment workers in that state. The reintroduction of the FABRIC Act signifies a continued effort to establish national-level legislation to support the growth...
