Booker, Pallone, Sweeney Highlight Importance of NJ Steel Industry

Press Release

Today Sen. Cory Booker and Congressman Frank Pallone (both D-NJ), along with New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney visited the facilities of MRP Steel Fabricators to discuss the importance of protecting jobs, growing the steel industry, and protecting New Jersey's manufacturing base.

"There is no simpler way to say it -- manufacturing is important to America, to our economic wellbeing, and to New Jersey families and communities," said Sen. Booker. "Currently, there are more than 7,800 manufacturers in New Jersey and they support 242,400 jobs in the state. That's why I am doing what I can in Washington to level the playing field for U.S. steelmakers and their employees, which make up 6 percent of total employment in our state."

"Businesses right here in our own community, like MRP, are drivers of economic growth in this country, and we must ensure that we are opening new doors for them so that they can continue to innovate and create jobs here at home," said Congressman Pallone. "But, in the face of China's continual targeting of our manufacturing base, we must act quickly and enforce our laws in order to protect American steel. Given the chance, American workers can out-compete anyone. We must end Chinese dumping in the American market in order to give them that chance and set us on a solid path forward to a future of greater competitiveness, more jobs, and long-term economic success."

Congressman Pallone highlighted the House Democrats' Make It In America plan, which focuses on creating the best conditions for American businesses to manufacture their products, innovate, and create jobs right here in the U.S. The Make It In America plan centers on four key priorities that can bring about the changes needed to help businesses grow and create jobs here in the U.S., and which are the most likely to draw bipartisan support. Pallone has been an ardent supporter of these priorities are central to creating jobs, helping manufacturers produce more goods here, maintaining America's innovation edge, and preparing a highly skilled workforce.

"There are many companies that are creating job opportunities...but overseas, not in America," said Senate President Sweeney. "We can't allow that to continue to happen when we have capable workers and great products right here, especially in New Jersey. That is one of the reasons I have sponsored the 'Made in America' bill package. Requiring the purchase of U.S.A. made goods for public contracts is just a matter of plain economic sense. Senator Booker has been fighting to create jobs and spur the economy on a bipartisan basis down in Washington. Together we are doing what is needed to ensure our families and friends have jobs."

Sen. Booker sent letters to the U.S. International Trade Commission and U.S. Dept. of Commerce urging the administration to defend American manufacturing jobs against unfair trade practices and dumping.

"Sen. Cory Booker has been a true champion of working people -- protecting good jobs by fighting for fair trade, promoting Buy American laws and pushing for modernization of our infrastructure," said USW District 4 Director John Shinn. "He knows what needs to be done to grow our economy and we're proud to welcome him here to demonstrate the great potential in American manufacturing."

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