[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 22 (Wednesday, February 4, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E208]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  THE IMPORTANCE OF THE STEEL INDUSTRY

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                         HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 4, 2009

  Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker, there is perhaps no industry that better 
encompasses the American spirit than the steel industry. Spanning for 
generations, the steel industry has offered the benefit of employment 
to millions of Americans, producing material that would serve as the 
backbone of America.
  Earlier today, a number of my colleagues joined me for a hearing 
entitled the ``State of the Steel Industry.'' At the hearing, industry 
executives joined with labor unions to discuss the future of American 
steel production.
  The present economic recession, coupled with the dubious trade and 
economic policies of competing nations abroad, makes the future of the 
industry of grave concern. In my district alone, hundreds of Ohioans 
depend on the industry for gainful employment. These jobs are good 
jobs. Given the present state of the economy in Ohio, we cannot afford 
to lose these jobs.
  I am proud to be a Member of the Congressional Steel Caucus, and 
proud to have the opportunity to work on behalf of the millions of 
Americans whose employment depends on the production of American steel. 
I look forward to working with all of my colleagues who share my 
passion for this issue to ensure that the American steel industry can 
thrive.
  There is no question that American steel can compete with any 
industry in the world on a level playing field. Congress must make that 
field even.

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