Chairwoman McClain Kicks Off National Tour with Visit to NJ Manufacturer and Restaurant Joined by Congressman Kean
PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (MI-10) visited Bihler of America, a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of precision automation systems. This visit marked the successful first stop of Chairwoman McClain’s national tour celebrating recent wins in the reconciliation package. It was an opportunity to hear directly from manufacturers and workers about how the newly enacted provisions are helping their businesses and livelihoods.
“Chairwoman Lisa McClain kicked off the first stop of her national tour right here in New Jersey’s 7th District, where she joined me at Bihler of America, a family-owned manufacturer that’s been producing high-quality, American-made products for nearly 50 years. We spoke with company leadership about challenges like rising costs and workforce shortages, and how provisions in the reconciliation bill—like no tax on overtime, expanding R&D tax credits, and restoring SALT relief for middle-class families—will help support their employees and strengthen the industry,” Rep. Kean said.
“There was one thing I heard over and over again on the shop floor of Bihler of America: workers are excited about President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill. The One Big Beautiful Bill is unleashing American manufacturing, and what we heard today confirms its immediate positive effects. The tax relief in this bill means more money in the pockets of hardworking families in New Jersey and across America. Rep. Kean has been a tremendous advocate for his constituents in Congress and voted to pass the OBBB to deliver much-needed economic relief for the people of central New Jersey,” Chairwoman Lisa McClain said.
“Manufacturers thrive when we have the certainty we need to plan major investments in our facilities and our people. That’s exactly what this tax package delivers. We thank our partners in Congress and the Administration—and we look forward to working with them on a full comprehensive manufacturing strategy. Through energy, trade, and workforce policies that drive our competitiveness, deliver certainty and empower manufacturers, we will build on the success of the One Big Beautiful Bill,” Bihler CEO of Maxine Nordmeyer said.
“Manufacturing is the backbone of the American economy—and with the leadership of Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Kean, that foundation is stronger than ever. By championing the Manufacturing Law, Congress has protected 6 million American jobs, including 15,000 jobs and $1.5 billion in wages in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District. This legislation provides the certainty and competitiveness manufacturers need to compete, grow, hire, and thrive. Touring Bihler of America is just the latest example of Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Kean’s partnership with the very manufacturers that this tax legislation will make stronger,” Executive Vice President of the National Association of Manufacturers Erin Streeter said.
After touring Bihler of America, Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Kean stopped at a local restaurant to discuss with the owners, Brenda Gara and Ricky (Jose) Chacon, and employees of Alpha Family Restaurant about the positive impacts of no tax on tips for employees.
“We also stopped by Alpha Family Restaurant, where we heard how new policies like No Tax on Tips are already making a real difference for hardworking staff. New Jerseyans need and deserve affordability relief, and House Republicans have not only listened—we delivered. Through tax cuts and restoring responsible spending in Washington, we are putting more money back in the pockets of workers, families, and small business owners across the country,” Rep. Kean added.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Delivers for New Jersey:
No tax on overtime. This will allow workers to keep more of their earnings. On average, Americans will receive up to $1,400 more from no tax on overtime per year. Around 21% of all employees in New Jersey regularly work overtime and could benefit from the no tax on overtime provision of the OBBB. An even larger 60% of workers in New Jersey are in occupations that are likely eligible for overtime and could also benefit.
No tax on tips. Around 5% of the labor force is employed in occupations that would likely benefit from the no taxes on tips provision of the OBBB.
No tax on social security. Around 1.6 million seniors in New Jersey could benefit from the no taxes on social security provision of the OBBB.
Higher wages. $5,000 to $9,000 over the next four years.
More money in the pockets of middle-class families. A typical family with two children in New Jersey can expect to see higher take-home pay of about $8,600 to $12,700 with OBBB.
Protecting Jobs. OBBB will protect about 179,000 full-time equivalent jobs in New Jersey over the next four years relative to if the TCJA had been allowed to expire.
100% expensing for new factories, equipment, and improvements. This allows manufacturers to immediately deduct the full cost of these investments. This provision is intended to give companies the incentive and financial certainty to build, expand, and modernize their facilities.
20% small business deduction. This permanent tax break for small businesses will encourage job creation and growth among small and mid-sized businesses, which are the backbone of the manufacturing sector.
Full expensing for domestic research and development (R&D). This provision will encourage innovation and ensure the U.S. remains a leader in manufacturing technology.
More district-specific data can be found here and here.
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About Bihler of America
Bihler of America is a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of precision automation systems for stamping, forming, welding, and fastening. Established in Phillipsburg, NJ in 1976, Bihler of America provides cutting-edge manufacturing solutions, retrofits, and contract production services to a diverse range of industries, including automotive, e-mobility, electrical, medical, and industrial sectors.
Alpha Family Restaurant
Alpha Family Restaurant is a beloved local spot in New Jersey, known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty, home-style meals. Since opening its doors, it has become a go-to destination for favorites like country-fried steak and eggs, pancakes, and disco fries. With friendly staff and generous portions, Alpha Family Restaurant is more than just a place to eat, it’s a cherished staple in the surrounding community.