Lawmakers Push to Reopen Cleveland-Cliffs Steel Mill in Steelton

Efforts to Revive Steelton Steel Mill Gain Momentum

Lawmakers in Central Pennsylvania are working to bring back a steel mill in Steelton that was temporarily shut down last month due to reduced demand for its products. This initiative comes as local officials and state representatives seek ways to revive the region’s manufacturing sector and protect jobs.

A group of lawmakers from Cumberland and Dauphin counties recently introduced companion legislation aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania’s steel industry, preserving jobs, and reestablishing the state as a leader in American manufacturing. The proposed bills focus on supporting domestic steel production and shielding the industry from global economic challenges.

In addition to the legislative efforts, U.S. Rep. Scott Perry has taken a personal interest in the matter. He recently wrote a letter to the CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs, expressing his support for finding solutions to reopen the Steelton facility. The mill, which closed on June 30, had been a vital part of the local economy, producing railroads, flat bars, and specialty blooms used in forging and railroad markets.

Cleveland-Cliffs highlighted the significance of the Steelton plant, noting that it is one of only three rail producers in the Americas. The facility benefits from a well-connected transportation network, including highways, railroads, and access to several deep-water ports. These factors make it a strategic location for serving customers across the country.

The closure of the Steelton mill had a significant impact on the workforce. A WARN notice filed at the time indicated that 559 employees were affected by the shutdown. This loss of jobs has raised concerns among local residents and business leaders about the long-term stability of the region’s industrial base.

In response to these challenges, Democratic state Senators Patty Kim and Nick Pisciottano, along with Representatives David Madsen, John Inglis, and Nate Davidson, introduced Senate Bill 949 and House Bill 1749. The legislation, titled "Fueling Opportunities for the Revitalizing, Growth, and Efficiency of Steel" (FORGES), aims to provide support for the steel industry and ensure its competitiveness in the face of global economic pressures.

The FORGES bill includes provisions designed to stimulate job growth, enhance efficiency, and promote innovation within the steel sector. It also seeks to address supply chain issues and reduce reliance on foreign steel imports. By investing in domestic production, the legislation could help stabilize the Steelton mill and other similar facilities across the state.

Supporters of the bill argue that revitalizing the steel industry is essential for maintaining Pennsylvania’s economic strength. They emphasize that a robust manufacturing sector not only creates jobs but also supports related industries such as transportation, construction, and energy.

As the debate over the future of the Steelton mill continues, lawmakers remain focused on finding sustainable solutions that balance economic needs with environmental and social considerations. The success of the FORGES legislation could serve as a model for other states looking to strengthen their own manufacturing sectors.

With the right policies and investments, Pennsylvania has the potential to reclaim its position as a leader in American steel production. The efforts of local lawmakers and industry leaders highlight the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the manufacturing sector and ensuring a prosperous future for workers and communities alike.