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A group of 28 industry associations — representing equipment manufacturers, technology businesses and trade groups — have sent a letter to congressional leaders asking that "Buy American" clauses, such as the one included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), be excluded from future economic stimulus legislation. Although it is intended to protect American jobs, the clause actually has the opposite effect, the associations say.

Citing figures from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the associations, including the Washington-based Water and Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association, National Foreign Trade Council and U.S. Chamber of Commerce, say in their letter that, as of Nov. 11, 2009, only $1.3 billion of the $6 billion in ARRA funds for the drinking water and wastewater State Revolving Fund programs has been committed. The associations say the rest of the funds are being delayed by concerns and confusion relating to "Buy American" rules.

Read the entire story from American City & County, our sister publication.