Political Quotes

“I rise today as the son of a steelworker in support of the gentleman from Indiana's amendment. I want to commend the gentleman for his tireless efforts within the Steel Caucus to ensure that the Federal Government is utilizing every means possible to protect our domestic steel industry and those Americans it employs. The goal of the steel industry legacy relief program will not only provide assistance to the steel producers in meeting retiree health care costs, but it also gives comfort to the nearly 2 million Americans who currently receive pensions and health care from current and former steel companies. This assistance is especially important for those who are eligible for retiree health insurance at the time a steel company ceases its operations. It is no secret that our domestic steel industry is in jeopardy. This is an industry we rely on for our transportation, electric, oil and, most importantly, our national security needs. The domestic steel industry has been devastated by a flood of imported foreign steel, resulting in plunging steel prices and the closing of multiple steel producing companies. For example, LTV in Cleveland, like other steel companies, is now on the brink of shutting down, leaving thousands to be unemployed. It is imperative that we make meaningful and effective reforms that will ensure the long-term viability of this vital industry.”