WASHINGTON - The U.S. House of Representatives tonight adopted Congressman David N. Cicilline’s “Brickle amendment” to the National Defense Authorization Act. The Brickle amendment, which is named for Rhode Island textile manufacturer Sam Brickle, would impose new transparency requirements by requiring the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of State to document efforts to engage American manufacturers on procurement opportunities to equip Afghan National Security Forces.

Sam Brickle, chairman of the board of the Rhode Island-based Brickle Group, issued the statement below following the adoption of the amendment:

“We first brought this issue to Congressman Cicilline’s attention during a meeting last year. American manufacturers have been at a competitive disadvantage for years because the Department of Defense is not required to notify them about overseas military contracts. Today’s adoption of this language means there will be greater transparency to show that the Department of Defense offers American companies the same opportunities that are given to overseas competitors.”

“When they are given a chance to compete, American manufacturers like our company can create quality goods at competitive prices and pay their employees a living wage. I thank Congressman Cicilline for listening to our concerns and addressing them in today’s amendment. If it becomes law, this new provision will significantly benefit Rhode Island workers and manufacturers.”

The Brickle Group has been a leading manufacturer of textiles in Rhode Island for more than 75 years. Today, it provides berets for the United States Armed Forces and manages Northwest Woolen Mills in Woonsocket.

Congressman Cicilline issued the following statement:

“The Brickle Group represents Rhode Island’s commitment to manufacturing and our state’s identity as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. I am grateful that Sam Brickle informed me of this obstacle facing his company and other Rhode Island manufacturers, and I was proud to offer this amendment today. It is only commonsense that the Department of Defense and Department of State should be transparent about their efforts to provide contract opportunities to American manufacturing companies so we can create good-paying jobs for middle class families and create new opportunities for Rhode Islanders to succeed.”