FTC: Made In The USA Comments Concerning Louise Witham--P894219 August 8, 1997 Honorable Robert Pitofsky/Chairman Dear Honorable Robert Pitofsky: In regards to the made in the USA requirements. I and my spouse worked in a shoe factory for twenty-five years. One day the company told us that they were closing the factory mostly due to foreign imports. This was devastating not just to me and my family, but to three hundred other employees. This had such a devastating effect on the community. Some people had to relocate to find other employment. It took years for people to get back on their feet again. This is why I am supporting the 75% standard so that American manufactures can stay within our fast growing environment, to provide work for out next generations. I have been employed with New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. for fifteen years. We make athletic footwear, there are more than 350 employees working here. I want my children and grandchildren to be able to say that they are working in the USA, and proudly wear the made in the USA label. Rather than say the product has to be 100% made in the USA, I think 75% of the product shouldbe made in the USA. That way we are able to proudly put the USA label on the product. Respectfully, Louise Witham |