Government and Regulatory News | American Foundry Society

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Small Foundries in All U.S. States Eligible to Apply for Low-Interest Loans Due to Covid-19

March 23, 2020

The Small Business Administration announced it would offer disaster assistance loans for up to $2 million for foundries and other small businesses affected by the coronavirus. These low-interest loans are available to businesses that have sustained “substantial economic injury” due to the spread of the virus.

AFS Urges Administration to Classify Metalcasting as Essential Industry

March 20, 2020

AFS continues to advocate for metalcasting during the COVID-19 crisis facing the U.S. and the metalcasting supply chain. On Friday, March 20, AFS sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence in his role leading the COVID-19 task force, asking the administration to identify foundries, their supply chains, and workers as essential when drafting and enforcing shelter-in-place rules during the pandemic.

Congress Sends COVID-19 Response Bill to President, Implications for U.S. Metalcasters

March 18, 2020

The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package on Wednesday, March 18, to provide up to 12 weeks of paid sick and family leave for workers at companies with fewer than 500 employees, unemployment benefits, free coronavirus testing, and food and medical aid to people suffering from the results of the coronavirus pandemic.

AFS Supports Legislation to Help Solve Truck Driver Shortage

February 13, 2020

Many metalcasters are experiencing the effects of the truck driver shortage across the nation. AFS has been working with a coalition and recently joined on a congressional letter with over 80 organizations urging that the DRIVE Safe Act be included in the next highway bill.

AFS Announces 2020 Policy Priorities

January 9, 2020

AFS released its top policy priorities for 2020. This year’s policy priorities identify five areas where AFS will focus its advocacy efforts: infrastructure, trade, safety, tax, and energy/environment.

AFS Offers Silica Compliance Help to Foundries

October 10, 2019

A recent news item demonstrates that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is serious about enforcing its crystalline silica rule which became effective on June 23, 2018. The American Foundry Society can help your metalcasting facility to work towards compliance and prepare for your next visit from OSHA.

AFS, Industry Coalition Oppose Taxpayer Funding for Rail Purchases from China-Controlled Companies

August 21, 2019

AFS and an industry coalition are fighting for language in the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that will prevent the use of taxpayer dollars for purchases of rail equipment from companies controlled by China.

Plan to Host a Plant Tour with Your Lawmakers over the August Recess!

August 1, 2019

Now is a great time to contact your lawmakers to invite them to tour your foundry!

Regulatory Notice: Some U.S. Foundries and Suppliers Must File New EEOC Form by Sept. 30

July 31, 2019

Many businesses, including some foundries and metalcasting suppliers, are required to submit additional employee data to the U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) by Sept. 30, 2019.

AFS Comments on OSHA’s Powered Industrial Truck Regulations

June 20, 2019

As part of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s process to determine whether to initiate rulemaking to revise its powered industrial trucks standards for general, maritime, and construction industries, the American Foundry Society submitted comments. OSHA’s current regulations are “based on industry consensus standards from 1969,” the agency said in a press release.