Three-fourths of
all American steel
is recycled, part
of the industry’s
clear environmental commitment.

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American Clean Energy and Security Act Passes in the House Energy and Commerce Committee

After more than 40 hours of debate last week, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act by a vote of 33-25. All of the Democrats with the exception of Reps. Ross (AR), Matheson (UT), Melancon (LA) and Barrow (GA) voted for the bill, while all of the Republicans except Congresswoman Bono Mack (CA) voted against it. The bill currently calls for a 17 percent greenhouse gas emission reduction through 2020 for covered entities and steel would be subject to this cap beginning in 2014.

Although Congressmen Mike Doyle (D-PA) and Jay Inslee (D-WA) worked hard on crafting an energy-intensive, trade-exposed specific provision, the steel industry still is concerned that the emissions allocation provision for trade-vulnerable industries is not robust enough to meet the demand all the eligible sectors will place on the pool. In addition, there is not a sufficient border adjustment mechanism and no recognition of the importance of a robust and affordable energy supply.

AISI will work with its members and champions on the Hill to address the outstanding issues. Attention must now turn to the House Ways and Means Committee who bears responsibility for the border provision and the Senate as they begin their work on a climate change. For more information, contact Jennifer Diggins.