WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal agencies that manage national parks and public lands will shift millions in annual spending toward American-made uniforms under a new purchasing policy aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing.
What This Means for You
- Federal contracts for uniforms will increasingly favor U.S.-made products
- About $11 million in annual government spending could shift to domestic suppliers
- Businesses can compete for contracts through the federal system at SAM.gov
The Department of the Interior, in coordination with the Office of Management and Budget’s Made in America Office, announced it will prioritize sourcing uniforms and textiles produced in the United States.
The policy focuses on federal procurement, the process agencies use to purchase goods and services. By setting sourcing preferences, procurement policies can influence where products are manufactured.
What the Policy Changes
Interior Department agencies, including the National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management, collectively spend about $11 million each year on uniforms.
Under the new policy, those purchases will prioritize American-made products when contracts are awarded.
“By adopting this Buy American policy, the Department of the Interior is putting that commitment into action,” Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said. “The men and women who serve on our public lands should wear uniforms made by American hands.”
Broader Federal Strategy
Officials said the change is part of a wider federal effort to use government purchasing power to support domestic industries.
The Made in America Office, which oversees compliance with domestic sourcing requirements, is helping guide the implementation.
Associate Director Michael Stumo said the move is intended to support U.S. textile manufacturing.
“Today’s announcement is proof that the era of Washington turning its back on American manufacturing is over,” Stumo said.
Industry Access and Next Steps
Federal officials said companies interested in supplying uniforms will have opportunities to compete through the federal contracting process.
The Department of the Interior and the Made in America Office plan to host an industry day on Thursday, March 27, to outline requirements and contracting opportunities.
Businesses can find additional information and register for opportunities through the federal procurement website at SAM.gov.
Scope of the Policy
The policy applies to uniforms worn by federal employees working on public lands, including park rangers and land management staff.
Officials said the change will guide future purchasing decisions rather than immediately altering existing contracts.
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