Washington, D.C. – Philip K. Bell, president of the Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA) commended President Trump for signing the executive order to “Buy American and Hire American”. The executive order will help maximize the use of domestically produced steel in federally funded infrastructure projects. This will also help minimize waivers and exceptions to Buy American requirements.
Bell stated, “This is an important development that will benefit 21st Century Steelmakers. By signing this executive order, the President confirms the significance of the “melted and poured” standard, which requires all manufacturing processes take place in the U.S. in order for steel to be considered produced in the United States. This standard is crucial to ensuring that the benefits of ‘Buy American’ are felt throughout the steel industry and its supply chain.”
Bell added, “We applaud the President’s efforts to support the domestic steel industry and address the issue of unfair trade. It is now incumbent upon Congress to help ensure that Buy America laws are effectively implemented, administered and enforced.”
SMA is North America’s largest steel industry trade association, and the primary association for electric arc furnace steel producers. SMA’s 25 producer member companies account for over seventy-five percent of total domestic steelmaking capacity. For more information visit SMA’s website at www.steelnet.org or our Facebook page