AEM'S 2026 POLICY PRIORITIES

Infrastructure

America’s infrastructure must meet the challenges of a modern, globally competitive economy. Modernizing our infrastructure – roads, bridges, waterways, and other critical assets – will spur investment in local communities, improve safety, reduce costs, and support innovation. For equipment manufacturers to help build, power, and feed the world, policymakers must make critical investments in infrastructure development and digital construction technology to match today’s global marketplace. AEM calls on policymakers to create a sustainable and long-term funding mechanism for America’s infrastructure, ensuring communities across the country will continue to have access to critical services.

Rural America

America’s heartland is dotted with small towns that depend on a stable local economy, state-of-the-art infrastructure assets, and reliable public utilities. Supporting rural America means bolstering the workforce training programs, infrastructure, and technologies that keep these communities strong. AEM urges lawmakers to provide a vital safety net for farmers and ranchers and advance comprehensive policies that will allow producers of all sizes to tap into the latest innovations, including precision agriculture technologies. A strong farm economy not only benefits farmers and ranchers but also helps protect the equipment manufacturing jobs based in rural communities.

Workforce

A reliable pipeline of skilled workers will address the current labor shortage and help build the next generation of equipment manufacturers. Our industry cannot succeed and grow without the right tools and a strong talent pipeline. It is essential that policymakers equip job creators with the resources to attract, retain, and retrain hardworking men and women to fill the skills gap. AEM supports policies to expand access and eligibility to state and federal career and technical education programs, all while encouraging young adults to explore family-sustaining careers and vocational opportunities beyond a traditional college education. Equipment manufacturers also support workplace safety and health practices on the shop floor and the jobsite. Collaborative relationships with state and federal occupational safety agencies ensure that policies and regulations keep safety top of mind and do not impede equipment innovation and design.

Trade

Thirty percent of equipment manufactured in the U.S. is intended for export, and equipment manufacturers depend on reliable and consistent trade policies to stay competitive and create more American jobs. Equipment manufacturers support efforts to rebalance America’s trading relationships, strengthen domestic manufacturing, and create more family-sustaining jobs. However, broad and persistently high tariffs, especially on critical parts and components that cannot be viably sourced domestically, can raise production costs, disrupt supply chains, and reduce global competitiveness across the industry. AEM calls on lawmakers to support policies that promote U.S. trade and investment with our allies, create a level playing field for U.S. companies competing in global markets, and make goods and services accessible for more Americans.

Tax

A competitive tax system is critical to the long-term growth and prosperity of the equipment manufacturing industry. AEM encourages the adoption of new tax incentives and the enhancement of existing provisions in the U.S. tax code to spur economic growth. This includes policies that encourage new investment in the United States, incentivize research and development efforts, and enable individuals and businesses to access capital for equipment purchases.

Immigration

AEM urges policymakers to strengthen border security, prioritize America’s workforce needs through reforms to legal immigration, offer meaningful employment and legal certainty for those who came to the country as a minor without legal status, and improve the competitiveness of nonimmigrant visas and temporary worker programs.

Technology

The equipment manufacturing industry is on the cutting edge of innovation. From off-road autonomy to advanced artificial intelligence, U.S. equipment manufacturers are developing technologies that enhance productivity, efficiency, and safety. AEM supports regulations and policies that promote responsible innovation rather than restrict technological progress. Equipment manufacturers also strongly support their customers’ ability to repair the equipment they own and operate. Access to tools and information is vital to reducing downtime, maximizing productivity, and promoting proper and safe repair procedures. However, policies that maintain farmers’ and operators’ right to repair their equipment should not introduce safety, environmental, or security risks.

Environment

Equipment manufacturers are committed environmental stewards and work closely with industry stakeholders and environmental policymakers to advance shared objectives, such as reducing engine emissions, promoting alternative power solutions, and conserving natural resources. To remain competitive, manufacturers need clear regulations that balance environmental protection with innovation. AEM supports the development of clear and consistent policies for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) mitigation, streamlined implementation of reforms initiated through the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), and science-based pesticide regulations that protect health and the environment without significantly harming U.S. manufacturers’ global competitiveness.