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Poliquin Wins Key Vote on Measure Affecting Maine Shoe Manufacturer

AUGUSTA, Maine - A move by some Republicans in the U.S. House to strip out language enforcing the decades-old law requiring clothing and shoes used by the military to be made in the U.S. was defeated 265 to 155.

Maine 2nd District Rep. Bruce Poliquin sponsored the original language - part of the National Defense Authorization Act - which mirrors similar language in the Senate version of the bill, authored by Maine Sen. Angus King.

"It very simply requires, Mr. Speaker, the Pentagon to issue American-made gear and equipment to men and women in uniform for basic training," Poliquin said.

The effect of the language is to help preserve 900 jobs at New Balance, which makes athletic shoes at facilities in Skowhegan, Norridgewock and Norway, Maine.

The attempt to strip out the language was led by Republicans opposed to Poliquin's amendment on free trade grounds.

Journalist Mal Leary spearheads Maine Public's news coverage of politics and government and is based at the State House.