Rokita Stands Up for Hoosier Steel Jobs

Press Release

Rep. Todd Rokita released the following statement after delivering testimony before the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) at hearing concerning American marketplace pricing of foreign-made steel. Rokita's remarks were in support of marketplace fairness for American-made steel by Hoosier companies such as Nucor and Steel Dynamics.

"Steel has been the backbone of American and Hoosier manufacturing for decades. I was honored to be able to testify on behalf of the thousands of steelworkers in our state. I support free and fair trade, which is why we must insist that our trading partners keep their promises. When they do not keep their word, we must protect our own interests. I ask that the ITC and the Commerce Department continue these orders because American steelworkers will succeed when they can compete in a truly free market" said Rokita.

Industry Reaction to Rokita's Testimony

"An unprecedented level of overcapacity in the global hot-rolled steel market presents a serious threat to the health of the U.S. industry," said Ron Dickerson, Vice President and General Manager of Nucor Steel Indiana. "We are asking that the trade laws be enforced to ensure that our Crawfordsville teammates, and countless others across Indiana, are not injured by unfairly traded imports. I commend Congressman Rokita for his efforts to prevent unlawful trade practices from destroying good-paying American jobs, and hampering a lasting economic recovery."

"We were very pleased that Congressman Rokita was able to provide testimony at today's hot-rolled steel sunset hearing at the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC)" said Mark Millett, President and CEO of Steel Dynamics. The Congressman delivered a strong and resounding message in support of the industry and its workers in Pittsboro and all across Indiana and we appreciate his support and look forward to working with him on these issues, added Millett.

Editor's Note:

The ITC is responsible for administering U.S. trade remedy laws and to provide the President independent quality analysis of tariffs and international trade and competitiveness. The ITC scheduled this hearing as "antidumping" or AD orders on hot-rolled steel products from China, India, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, and Ukraine will sunset after five years. (background)

The point of contention for American-made steel companies and workers at this hearing is the ability of foreign-made steel to enter the marketplace below the cost of production, either through subsidies or other means. U.S. trade law allows for tariffs to be enacted in order to protect American companies. Representative Rokita advocated for the protection of American steel companies and their employees by requesting action in this regard.

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