With the new year approaching, we’d like to highlight our manufacturing advocacy program, which represents all of our members’ best interests, from small family-owned operations to larger-scale CNC businesses.
We caught up with Omar Nashashibi, founder of Inside Beltway and long-time NTMA advocacy partner, to learn what members can expect in the year ahead, from tariffs and regulations to supply chain shifts.
2026 Will Be Shaped by Elections and Economic Policy
With 2026 being an election year, the focus in Washington will shift from new legislation to ensuring that government agencies remain funded through the year. That stability will be especially important for NTMA members involved in workforce training and apprenticeship programs.
Once funding is secured, Congress will likely move into campaign mode, with manufacturing taking the center stage. We’ve seen manufacturing be a central theme in elections since 2016, and we expect that the industry will remain a major focus heading into 2026.
Tariffs Will Continue to Be Part of the Discussion
Tariffs have played a significant role in the most recent Trump administration thus far, and we expect this discourse to continue. The Trump administration plans to expand its use of various tariff codes, including Section 232 tariffs targeting steel, aluminum, industrial machinery, and robotics. A pending Supreme Court case may also determine whether the president’s existing tariffs are upheld or nullified.
If the ruling leads to refunds or new tariff strategies, shops could see short-term disruptions. Even if the decision is delayed, Omar anticipates that tariffs will continue to dominate headlines and impact how shops approach equipment purchases and imports in 2026.
For many members, these policies hit close to home, especially for those investing in tooling, automatic tool changers, grinders, lathes, CNC machines, and other equipment, all of which are essential to maintaining a competitive advantage.
“When They Don’t Legislate, They Regulate”
Election years often mean less legislative movement, but that doesn’t mean less government activity. When Congress is focused on campaigning, federal agencies like OSHA and the EPA often “step into the void.”
Expect to see increased regulatory activity in early 2026, particularly around:
- Lockout/Tagout safety updates (which would signal the first major update since 1989)
- Mechanical press and power press rules (last revised in 1988)
- New EPA policies and potential withdrawals of long-standing environmental rules
This increased regulatory focus could significantly influence machining safety standards and the broader manufacturing network NTMA supports. For shops looking to stay ahead of compliance requirements, you can count on NTMA to provide timely updates and expert insight.
The Defense Supply Chain
Amid debates over tariffs and regulatory updates, the defense industrial base and shipbuilding sectors are attracting bipartisan attention.
Lawmakers are exploring legislation to invest in U.S. shipyards and the domestic supply chain. That move could create opportunities for NTMA members serving defense and maritime industries.
Navigating Change with NTMA
2026 will bring uncertainty, but it also presents opportunity. From tariffs and trade to training and technology, NTMA’s manufacturing advocacy efforts will ensure your voice is heard where it matters most.
Through continued engagement in Washington and collaboration with industry partners, NTMA remains dedicated to helping members navigate evolving policies and find new ways to improve efficiency.
Continue following along to learn more about NTMA’s ongoing manufacturing advocacy efforts and how they support your business at every level, from the shop floor to Capitol Hill.
Not a member yet? Join NTMA to experience the full benefits of our successful manufacturing network.