U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) has introduced the Coast Guard Personnel Equipment Act, which would require all U.S. Coast Guard uniforms to be produced within the United States.
Under existing law, every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces—with the exception of the Coast Guard—is prohibited from purchasing fabrics, fibers, yarns, and clothing produced in foreign countries. Senator Graham’s legislation seeks to close this gap by extending these domestic sourcing requirements to the Coast Guard. The move ensures that no branch of the military relies on foreign nations for essential personal equipment.
Supporters of the bill argue that an over-reliance on international supply chains for military clothing can jeopardize national security. By requiring “Made in USA” production, the act aims to:
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Strengthen the domestic textile industry and its industrial base.
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Protect South Carolina’s textile producers and workers from unfair foreign trade practices.
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Ensure Coast Guard personnel have access to the same high-quality, American-made gear provided to other service members.
The legislation follows recent executive efforts to increase scrutiny on “Made in USA” claims and encourage federal agencies to prioritize American products. If passed, the bill would provide significant support to the domestic textile supply chain, which remains a vital contributor to the South Carolina economy.
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