The Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) is a federal law to help strengthen American manufacturing and build stronger domestic supply chains. It says that when the federal government helps pay for a public infrastructure project, the iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials built into that project must be made in the United States.
BABA applies to ARC-funded construction projects. ARC cannot release grant money for a construction project unless all of the iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in it are produced in the United States, or a waiver applies. BABA does not expire, and it applies to the whole project, even if ARC pays for only part of it.
Build America, Buy America
ARC BABA Guidance
ARC’s Buy America Preference Requirements Guidance applies to the entire infrastructure project — even when the project also receives non-ARC funds, and even when infrastructure is only part of a broader award.
ARC Recipient BABA Manual
This manual is designed to help current and prospective grantees understand how to implement ARC’s Buy America Preference Requirements in their ARC-funded infrastructure projects.
ARC RSBA BABA Manual
This manual is designed to help registered state basic agencies (RSBAs) understand how to ensure ARC’s Buy America Preference Requirements are being properly implemented in their administered ARC infrastructure projects.
Buy America Waivers
ARC is responsible for processing all BABA waiver requests. In addition, every waiver must be reviewed by the Made in America Office. To the greatest extent practicable, waivers should be targeted to specific products and projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Review these frequently asked questions about BABA preference requirements. If you have more questions, please email BABA@arc.gov.
Key Resources
Contact Us
Please email BABA@arc.gov with questions on the implementation of Build America, Buy America provisions.