SteelBriefs | Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) Profile

Why did you join the Congressional Steel Caucus?

I joined the Congressional Steel Caucus because the steel industry is not only important to my district but the U.S. economy. So many of my constituents work in steel or in an industry that uses or supports steel, so I wanted to give a voice to the steelworkers from my district. The importance of steel to the U.S. economy and national security is also luckily a bipartisan issue, so it provides a forum for both sides to put aside politics and talk about important issues.

What is the steel industry’s impact in your congressional district? And in America?

The steel industry, whether it be the production of steel or finishing of fabricated steel products, is one of the largest industries in my district. Unfortunately, the steel industry has been under stress these past few years; from the previous administration’s uncertain trade policies to the decline in production due to the pandemic. The industry is in need of support as many of my constituents depend on the jobs and products that are produced.

The steel industry nationwide has the ability to drive America’s economic recovery. With smart investment into infrastructure, the steel industry will be relied on to provide much of the materials used to rebuild our roads and bridges. Using American steel, and American products in general, would really help create jobs in manufacturing and steel.

Our industry’s legislative priorities this Congress are: ensuring unfair trade practices are addressed, including preserving the Section 232 steel tariffs and quotas; and, investing in infrastructure. What are your thoughts on these issues?

I’m supportive of all these issues. In February I led a letter to the Biden/Harris Administration on these very issues. The letter urged continued support of the Section 232 tariffs as well as a commitment to American steel while we invest in infrastructure. I will continue to advocate for trade rules that allow American producers to compete on a level playing field and call out bad actors cheating the system.

Our industry’s sustainability story is a major topic also, as our member companies continue to work as strong environmental stewards. What are your thoughts on sustainability in the manufacturing sector?

It is critical that as we make investments in manufacturing, we also consider the environmental effects. We need to invest in a manufacturing sector that provides safe, quality jobs to the American people and does no harm to our environment. Pollution has disastrous health effects, often affecting disadvantaged communities the worst. It is also costly, as we have seen an increase in extreme weather that leads to homes being lost and lives tragically and needlessly ending. Investing in sustainable manufacturing is a crucial part of fighting Climate Change and limiting these disasters.

Do you have any other comments or statements about the steel industry?

As I have said previously. The steel industry is going to play a crucial role in recovery. As we pass the House’s infrastructure package, the Moving Forward Act, the steel industry is going to play an important role that will lead to new jobs created across the country. I’m confident that this Congress will be good for steel.