Made in USA: Navigating the Buy America (BABA) Act

 

At Graber Manufacturing, Inc., we are dedicated to providing high-quality, ADA-compliant site furnishings while also supporting American manufacturing. With the introduction of the Build America Buy America Act (BABA) in 2021, we are prepared to assist customers in meeting compliance requirements for federally funded infrastructure projects. 

 

What is Buy America? 

The Build America Buy America (BABA) Act, established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, mandates that all federally funded infrastructure projects use U.S.-made materials, including iron, steel, construction materials, and manufactured products. 

Key objectives of the Act include: 

  • Revitalizing American manufacturing. 
  • Strengthening supply chain resilience. 
  • Promoting sustainability and equity in infrastructure projects. 

Key Provisions of the Act: 

  • Iron and Steel: Must be entirely U.S.-produced, covering all manufacturing processes. 
  • Manufactured Goods: At least 55% of the total component cost must come from U.S.-sourced materials, with final manufacturing occurring domestically. 
  • Construction Materials: Non-ferrous metals, polymers, lumber, and other materials must undergo all manufacturing processes within the U.S. 

The Act applies to federally funded public infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, water systems, and broadband. Waivers may be granted under specific conditions, such as unavailability of materials or unreasonable costs. 

Thomas Steele bar height courtyard tables on a business patio.

Here’s What You Need to Know

To ensure your project runs smoothly and complies with BABA requirements, keeps these points in mind:

  • Project Scope and Specifications: Clearly outline the Buy America Compliance requirements in your project documents.
  • Timely Communication with manufacturers & suppliers
  • Waiver Processes: Understand the conditions under which waivers may apply and gather necessary approvals if needed. 
  • Documentation Expectations: Ensure all required compliance documentation is submitted to project managers or federal agencies on time. 

 

What We Need From You

[   ] Let us know as early as possible if your project has specific compliance requirements.

[   ] Clearly outline the BABA or other compliance requirements (ADA) in your project documents.

[   ] Provide details on any unique material needs or preferences to streamline sourcing.

 

Here's How Graber Manufacturing, Inc. Supports Compliance 

Thomas Steele Site Furnishings and Madrax Bike Racks by Graber Manufacturing, Inc. offers numerous products that can meet BABA standards. For each order BABA compliance is required, we can provide: 

  • Buy America Certificates – Verifying that steel and other materials used meet Buy America requirements. 
  • Compliance Letters – Customized for each order to ensure proper documentation for project approval. 

While supply chain challenges may arise, the BABA Act provides for strategic waivers to ensure project feasibility. Graber Manufacturing, Inc. works closely with project managers to address these challenges and ensure smooth project execution.

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We are here to support your infrastructure projects with products and documentation that align with BABA requirements. Whether you’re planning a public park, updating transit infrastructure, or revitalizing a downtown streetscape, our team is ready to assist with compliant solutions tailored to your needs.

Learn more about our Made in America Process here or fill the contact form below and we'd be happy to help ensure your project is a success! 

 

Resource links: US Dept. of Commerce, Build America Buy America Provisions (hud.gov)