Klobuchar, Franken Introduce Legislation to Crack Down on Illegal Steel Dumping, Protect U.S. Steelworkers

Statement

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Al Franken (D-MN) introduced legislation to crack down on illegal steel dumping and protect U.S. steelworkers. The illegal dumping of steel products by foreign countries is harming the steel industry in Minnesota and across the country, resulting in plant closures and job losses. The senators' bill would crack down on illegal steel dumping by strengthening trade enforcement.

"Our steelworkers can compete with anyone in the world, but when foreign producers dump cheap steel in our country, it undercuts our domestic industry and puts American steelworker jobs at risk," Klobuchar said. "While we have recently taken steps to help fight foreign dumping, more and more mining operations are being forced to idle and it is clear more must be done. By strengthening trade enforcement, this important legislation will help provide a level playing field for the American workers who help keep our country strong as steel."

"Minnesota iron and steel producers and workers are the best and most productive in the world," said Franken. "But the playing field has been tilted by foreign competitors illegally dumping steel into the market. Recently, we have seen far too many facilities idle and close. Although we've taken measures to stop dumping, this legislation will further crack down illegal practices. We need to do everything we can to fight for our workers and producers."

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