At a forum in California, Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), gave a keynote address emphasizing the importance of smart transit investments and Make It In America policies to rebuild American manufacturing.

The forum discussions focused on new Ultra-Light Rail Transit technology, which was developed in partnership with the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, and is designed to be safer, quieter, less expensive, and more convenient than traditional rail technologies already in use.

Garamendi explained the importance of high-speed rail to California's future economy:

"Today, I was stuck in traffic on the Bay Bridge, in the Caldecott Tunnel, and on I-80 – a typical California experience. Our state, which leads the world in technology, cultural exports, and agriculture, can do much better. Thankfully, our state is home to world class research centers and trailblazing businesses that can partner to create world class transportation systems that will propel our economy forward."

Congressman Garamendi has voted for a bipartisan transportation bill and is the author of two Make It In America bills to rebuild America’s manufacturing sector by requiring all transportation and clean energy goods and equipment purchased with federal taxpayer dollars to include at least 85 percent American content, up from the current federal minimum of 66 percent.

Read more.