E-Newsletter

Keeping jobs in the 9th

Normally, we only hear about the businesses that are failing, but there are real life success stories in Southwest Virginia. Despite difficult economic times and extensive government regulation, some businesses in the region are still managing to hire and expand operations. Companies like these that have weathered the economy and are getting people back to work are investing in new employees and the community as a whole. Among many stops in the 9th District this week, I had the opportunity to tour two of these businesses.

Universal Fibers in Bristol has hired 200 new employees since 2010. At Universal Fibers, I learned more about how they manufacture nylon carpet fibers and create sustainable carpet products from old carpet. Not only are they creating jobs, but they are also protecting jobs by keeping this state of the art technology in the United States. Going forward, I plan to take a look at getting nylon carpet, like the product created in Bristol, added to the list of approved green materials in accordance with a presidential Executive Order for federal office buildings and facilities. This would positively impact manufacturers of this product nationwide and encourage economic growth.

The New River Valley Volvo Plant is hiring 600 workers in the coming months. After touring the facility in Dublin, it’s obvious that they have made a huge effort to increase production and efficiency on the line by adapting to new styles of production. This innovation has lead to quicker turnaround on trucks and more employment opportunities.

Currently, the New River Valley Plant is the only American plant producing Volvo trucks. This facility is keeping American manufacturing jobs in America – instead of sending them to China or Mexico. The U.S. has the technology and the resources to produce the best goods in the world. Sending our manufacturing jobs elsewhere does not benefit our economy.

Whether you live in Washington County or Pulaski County, jobs remain the number one issue. If you don’t have jobs, you don’t have an economy. It’s as simple as that. If the U.S. is going to remain on top, we’ve got to make sure we keep these businesses here at home. Scaling back oppressive regulations from the EPA and federal bureaucrats will generate an environment that encourages manufacturers to expand their operations and open their doors in the U.S., thus creating valuable jobs. As your representative in Congress, I am fighting to protect existing jobs and looking for opportunities for new jobs in the 9th District.

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, my office may be able to help you schedule a tour of the Capitol.  To request a tour, please visit www.morgangriffith.house.gov. If you have concerns or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671.