Congressman Earl Blumenauer has introduced a bill that would eliminate import duties on some outdoor apparel and enhance training for American textile workers.
The Oregon Democrat is a member of the House Ways and Means subcommittee on trade. He introduced the Recreational Performance Outerwear Apparel Act of 2008 on Tuesday.
Oregon is home to several athletic and apparel companies, including Nike Inc., Adidas US and Columbia Sportswear Co.
Blumenauer said no domestic company makes the fabrics for performance outerwear, so lifting the tariffs will help America's textile industry reduce their costs.
He said the bill would eventually lower the cost of recreational apparel for consumers.