|
|
| |
Here's What the People are Saying to President Bush and Other Government Officials about Imported Steel
"Mr. Bush
I know you don't know me but I do know that you are the answer to
this nightmare the steel workers are going through right now. My father
has
worked for Bethlehem Steel all his life. He has been able to raise two
daughters and send them to college. His father and his brother were
also
employees of Bethlehem Steel, they two provided for their families and
were
able to live a decent life in Gary, Indiana. Now ,my parents have to
take
care of each other. He deserves his Pension, he deserves all of his
benefits. Why not?? Maybe, you should try to put yourself in their
shoes
and ask yourself what would you do, how would you feel if this happen to
you? You are the only one that can change this bad situation. I
decided
to
write to ask you to make a difference and change this nonsense, because
my
father is a strong black man and he deserves justice in this world. How
could anyone think different. He has dedicated almost 30 years of his
life
to this steel mill, let him and others like him get what they need to
survive. Isn't that what America is all about????"
" Dear Mr. President,
The effects of unfairly traded steel have been far reaching and
devastating
to many families.
As a currently employed steelworker, I am faced daily with the
uncertainty
of my economic future because my employer has had to file for Chapter 11
under the United States Bankruptcy Code.
Many of my friends, family, and co-workers are now unemployed. Not only
are
they suffering, but there are those who labored for many years only to
now
be threatened with the loss of retirement and health benefits because of
our
steel crisis. These are not pleasant circumstances to have to face each
day.
As a nation, we cannot afford to stand by and let an industry so vital
to
our protection and economic growth be destroyed by unfair foreign
competition.
Mr. President, I urge you to do everything within your power to correct
this devastating situation. Thank you."
"Dear President Bush,
The steel crisis in this country has me overwhelmed with discontent, anger, and anxiety. I have worked thirty seven years for Bethlehem Steel Corp. and now am faced with decisions of retirement that are based on unknowns. Today the news is that LTV retirees are probably left with nothing as the Chapter 7 company is purchased with out the legacy. Now I am scared that I too will be out on a limb as I retire and only can hope for benefits that I have earned.
Just how can so many steelworkers experience this crisis in a country that is so great? I still can not understand that in America so many people can get screwed out of what they earn.
You are put to the test with the trade issue soon to be before you. Please send a strong message to all that 40% tariffs will support the retirees health and pension in the American Steel Industry. Please sign on to the strongest possible tariffs and make the money support the people that have made steel in this country as they near their final days. American Steelworker retirees should not have to pay the price for foreign steel makers success.
Thank You for your support!"
"Dear President Bush,
Living in an area that has directly felt the impact of unfairly priced steel imports, I would like to urge you to impose tariffs on such steel. One hears arguments from both sides, the steel producers saying they can't effectively compete against foreign subsidized steel and that they will go out of business, costing thousands of jobs, while the steel consuming side says that the cost of steel will rise, if tariffs are imposed, and therefore the consumer will be hurt and even more jobs will be in jeopardy. The free trade advocates feel if you can't compete, so be it. This might be well and good if everyone competed on a level playing field. However, if one side has government subsidies to cover health care and pension liabilities and our domestic steel industry does not, then we are competing with a handicap. We have just watched the Winter Olympic Spectacle where the best compete, but there is also the Special Winter Olympics for handicapped athletes. These athletes may train as hard as those without a handicap but they will never compete together because they wouldn't stand a chance.
The United States steel industry has spent billions of dollars over the last decade to modernize and they can and do efficiently produce a quality product. If it were not for the tremendously high legacy costs, I feel they would be very competitive with the rest of the world.
The domestic steel industry has already lost thousands of jobs and more will follow unless something is done. But it is not just the steel makers that will suffer, but countless numbers of businesses that supply goods and services to the industry. Higher unemployment and a reduced tax base will affect communities, which house these businesses.
To say that tariffs will cause the price of steel to rise, and therefore the price of consumer products, is probably correct, but the price will be a more accurate representation of what it would be on a level playing field. Should the domestic steel industry be reduced to the point where the United State has to rely heavily on foreign steel to meet its needs, then surely the price of imported steel would rise, and rise to a higher level than if we had a viable industry competing fairly with the rest of the world.
Also, just how much will the consumer be affected by rising steel prices? If the price of steel were to increase $100 per ton and the automaker were to pass this on directly to the customer, then a car using about 1000 pounds of steel would cost $50 more. For a $20,000 automobile this would amount to a �% increase. Considering that many of the big ticket consumer items such as cars and home appliances that might be affected the most by a price increase are durable goods, this �% increase would actually be spread out over several years to the point where it is negligible. We are not talking about non-durable goods such as food and medicine where a price increase would be felt weekly.
I would also hope that for national defense reasons we would never become heavily reliant on foreign steel. We can already see the problems that are caused by our dependence on Middle East oil.
I realize that you face a difficult decision on this subject of steel tariffs, but I urge you to impose tariffs, not just to help save the domestic steel industry but also to send a massage that the United States will not tolerate unfair trade practices regardless of the product."
"I just read a letter from Senators McCain. Kyl and Fitzgerald. It sounds like their asking you to disregard recommendations a panel made to you after a thorough investigation. And while your at it, don't enforce the law that protects American Steelworkers and their families. I will never forget these men. I am a steelworker in Conshohocken, PA. I work swing shifts. I don't have much time to write letters, but I always have time to vote. Come on Mr. Bush, do the right thing. 40 for 4!"
"Mr. President,
I am the proud father of a son who is an officer in the U.S. Air Force
and
of a daughter who is a school teacher in up state New York. I am also
employed in the steel industry. In my opinion, all three types of
employment are critical to the future of this country. You have been
and
are taking steps to strengthen our military and the education process.
It
is
time to help the steel industry too! At your direction a 201
investigation
of steel imports was conducted. On December 7, 2001, after carefully
reviewing the issues, the Trade Commission voted overwhelmingly in favor
of
imposition of tariffs to solve the problem of high levels of unfairly
traded
steel imports. The time for taking action is at hand. Please stop the
flood
of imported steel being dumped into this country. The imposition of a
40%
tariff is a necessary action to protect the domestic steel industry, its
employees and its retirees. Please help our national security by
following
the recommendations of your commission and make a strong, positive
response
to the steel dumping that is systematically undermining our steel
industry.
Thank you for your help."
"Dear Mr. President:
As an employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation for over 30 years residing
in
Pennsylvania, I congratulate you for initiating the 201 investigations.
Now,
however, is the time for strong action. Specifically, 40% tariffs must be
imposed and the massive excess foreign steel making capacity must be
shutdown.
The current media blitz focuses on Enron and the losses its employees and
retirees have suffered. Well the Enron situation is unfortunate, but the
real tragedy is with the American steel industry. Many of the Enron
employees accumulated and lost their retirement savings over the past
several
years; whereas, the employees at Bethlehem Steel and many of the other
integrated steel companies in America have worked their full career with
one
company slowly building their retirement nest eggs. In many cases,
several
generations of families have depended on Bethlehem Steel for their
livelihood. During that period the value of our company stock plans have
continuously eroded, benefits for active employees have been cut or
eliminated, resulting in our planned retirement security now in serious
jeopardy of vanishing. Without your help, we will lose our promised
retiree
health and welfare benefits and the retirement benefits which we worked
many
years to earn will be reduced to Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
levels.
On December 7, 2001, the U. S. International Trade Commission confirmed
with
a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American
steel companies and workers. Five of the six commissioners recommended
tariffs to solve the import problem. However, you Mr. Bush as President
have
full discretion as to the final action.
The American steel industry has played fair despite the fact that cheap
foreign imports have ruined the American steel market. Since 1998, 31
steel
companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Thousands of good paying jobs
and pensions for current and future retirees are seriously threatened.
Mr. President, help us to keep our jobs and benefits and, most
importantly,
help America continue to be strong and not dependent on foreign producers
to
supply our steel needs. If the American steel industry were destroyed by
cheap imports, we would be completely dependent on foreign producers to
supply our needs. This will endanger our national security and our whole
economy.
Thank you for your support and God Bless America!"
"President Bush, I write to you today with my future in your hands. I have worked for Bethlehem Steel Corporation for 36 years and now am deeply concerned about my future. Cheap foreign imports have destroyed my industry.and I now work of a company in Chapter 11.
I congratulate you on your initiation of the 201 investigation and was pleased with the 6-0 agreement that my industry was harmed by imported steel products. Now after all this time has gone by we are still in the same market structure, (ie) being hurt by imports. After 36 years with Bethlehem I am worried my future benefits and pension. I specifically ask you to give the industry the needed tariff relief of 40% to keep imports in check until the much needed consolidation can be formed. Politics aside, do what is right for the United States Steel Industry or we will be importing 100% of the steel requirements within 10 years."
"I am a plain and simple person who has worked all my life to support a lovely wife and child. I spent 26 years working for Bethlehem Steel
Co. until it closed its doors.I am now recieving a small pension and health care benefits for myself and my wife.This is what I worked for most of my life.I am now told that ALL of this could come to an end in a flash because of UNFAIR DUMPED STEEL into this country.I need these benefits that I have worked so hard for for the past 26 years of my life.If I lose them then I will probably lose everything I have worked for and will most likely have to let the taxpayers and the government support myself and my wife till we die.I hope for myself and all the others across the nation that you won't let this happen.We need these benefits and we need fair opportunities for OUR Steel makers in the U.S.A. to continue to exist.Thanks"
"Dear Mr. President:
It is hard to believe that I wrote a similiar letter thirty years ago asking for mirror trade laws so that our domestic steel industry could compete on a level playing field. Of course this never came to fruition and now we are seeing the death knell for American Steel and all the great paying jobs that are part of Steel. I lost my job in 1983 when Bethlehem Steel was forced to close its Lackawanna, NY Plant because of worldwide over capcity and a flood of foreign subsidized imports. At least I received a very modest pension. I have strong feelings for the remaining steelworkers who will be thrown in the trash bin of the global economy. You are our last hope in this Trail of Tears for American Steel and their families. Thank you for your magnificent leadership in our country's battle against evil and hoping you will bring justice to American Steel."
"Dear Mr. President;
Let's prevent a future USA without blue collar industry and trade,
When third worlders shout, and we're the ones who are afraid !
How can you reject what is crystal clear to the ITC ?
When it comes to 40% tarrifs, you should resoundedly agree !
Watch foreign imports steal steel jobs and benefits,
Our Nation's security(without domestic steel) will be the pits !"
" Congratulations Mr. President for initiating the 201 investigations.
Now
is
the time for strong action, 40% tariffs and stop foreign countries from
dumping their government subsidized steel into this country.
As an employee of a domestic steel company working directly with service
centers and OEM accounts, I see 1st hand the unfair prices and
difficulty
that foreign steel brings to our industry. I'm very concerned about
losing
my job to not only a foreign company but in some cases a foreign
government
run company.
Thank you for your support and God Bless America."
"Dear President Bush,
Again I am writing you to please implement strong measures on the trade issue as the ITC has recommended. Your positive involvement is imperative to help save the American Steel industry and its retired and active workforce from further destruction. Foreign imports have devastated the American industry for far to long and our government must step forward to demand laws that enact fair and free trade. The American steel industry is not ready to go the way of the cotton gin and textile mills while other foreign steel companies profit at our loss. We make the best steel on earth in the most efficient manner and should not be victimized by the import problem.We steelworkers have known for years what the ITC has found and suggests. Please act toward the legacy relief and trade issues with the Steelworkers of America. Trading FAIR is the only way to trade!"
"Dear Mr. President,
I am writing this note to urge you to do everything possible to support
the
domestic steel industry as it tries to re-structure and weather the
current
economic conditions. There are several reasons that I can think of why it
is important for the federal government to step in and assist the
industry -
and several ways to do it.
First, the entire domestic industry has been injured by illegally "dumped"
foreign steel products. Just look at how many steel companies are in
bankruptcy! And not all of these companies are poorly managed! There is
no
question about whether the industry has been damaged - the ITC has already
confirmed this injury. We hope you will excerise your legal authority by
imposing tariffs to help stop the injury to our industry.
We also need the government to help out with our huge "legacy costs". The
industry has taken a lot of heat for agreeing to generous labor contracts
over the years that are now bleeding us dry. But the fact is there was a
long period during the middle of the last century when steel strikes were
fairly frequent, and government intervention in contract disputes was
common. The federal government pressured industry into some of these
lucrative union contracts, and now the government must step up to the
plate
and accept some of the responsibility for the legacy costs it helped
create.
Finally, we must preserve the industrial and intellectual assets within
our
steel industry. I think the intellectual assets have gotten comparatively
little attention. As the industry has contracted over the years, we have
lost scores of people with expertise in the technology of steel. And I'm
not talking just about the know-how related to the actual making of steel
products. I'm talking about people that understand what steel is on a
fundamental level, and how to control its characteristics so that it
performs satisfactorily in the myriad of applications for this ubiquitous
material. I'm talking about people that know how to produce steel plate
that will resist enemy missiles or withstand the harsh environment of an
arctic oil platform. People that know what metallurgical characteristics
are important in railroad rails, so that we can avoid derailment
disasters.
People that understand how to make higher-strength sheet products that
will
enable automakers to reduce vehicle weight and make more fuel-efficient
cars
and trucks. People that understand how to increase the fire resistance of
steel, to help prevent building collapses like we witnessed on September
11th. The list goes on and on. This expertise lies mainly in the
"integrated" sector of our industry. The minimill companies concentrate
on
production efficiency and cost minimization. The minimills are indeed
efficient and more profitable, but this sector of the industry is not
going
to satisfy the demands of the more sophisticated and critical steel
applications. For the sake of our future safety and economic well-being,
we
must stop the continuing loss of our metallurgical assets!
Like it or not, steel is important for America's future. I hope I can
count
on you to support the steel industry by imposing tariffs and providing
some
legacy-cost relief."
"Dear Mr. President
I am an employee with Bethlehem Steel for 23 years at the Steelton Plant
in
Steelton Pa.. In this day and age it is very unusual to work for the same
company for an entire career. Three generations of my family has worked
for
Bethlehem Steel in Steelton and we are very proud of our company and the
contributions we have made. My grandfather emigrated from Europe in the
late 1800 and ever since there has been a member of our family working at
Steelton. It is an understatement to say that Bethlehem Steel and the
United Steelworkers Union have been very good to our family.
Chances are that you have never been to Steelton; however, there is a
good chance that you have come in contact with products produced at
Steelton. Gas and water lines in many cities have been built of large
diameter pipe produced at Steelton and America's railroads have used
Steelton's rails to build railroads for over a century. The Steelton
Plant
has a long notable history; it was the first steel plant built to produce
steel in this country. The first heat of steel was made here in 1867 and
was
rolled into the earliest steel rail produced in America on a commercial
basis. Steelton has produced rails and rail products since the early days
of railroading. Today Steelton still produces world class rails, large
diameter pipe, blooms, bars and special sections along with large ingots
for
the forging industry.
I ask you to impose tariffs of 40% and legacy cost relief to allow our
company and the entire industry to restructure. Steel is selling for
prices
not seen since the 60's & 70's because of foreign companies dumping steel
in this country. You asked for and I gave you my support during the
election. I did this because I believed that you were the right person for
the job. My belief was right and I commend you on doing an outstanding
job.
Now I am asking for your support to correct an injustice that has been
occurring to our industry for many years. Please act quickly and
decisively.
I would also like to invite you to Steelton Pa. to announce your favorable
decision on tariffs and legacy cost relief. Steelton is known as the
little
town with a big heart. Come see a community that is an underdog like the
New
England Patriots, a steel plant where a team effort between management and
union exist. Come see a School District that will be the first one
removed
from former Gov. Ridge's academically impaired list because of the great
effort of the students and the empowerment team. Their funding has been
impacted by the steel crisis. All that we ask is a level playing field
and
this Town, School District and Plant will win. God Bless America!"
"Dear President Bush
I'm writing this note to ask for your support of the 201 Cases filed
against low priced / dumped foreign steel which has almost destroyed the
domestic steel industry. Foreign Steel should be allowed, but it should be
sold, not simply dumped ! Please support the tariffs proposed against this
illegal method that foreign mills and governments have of shipping stel
into
our country."
"Dear Mr. President,
I watched your speech last night, and I'm proud of the leadership you have demonstrated in the war on terrorism. I was also pleased with the position you have taken on the domestic front with respect to the need for good jobs, and for protecting the retirees who worked hard all their lives, but who have lost, or stand to lose, their savings & healthcare benefits because their companies failed.
I am retired from Bethlehem Steel Corp. and my entire 401K was in Bethlehem stock because I believed in the company. Well, I watched my savings totally evaporate when Bethlehem filed bankruptcy; I never believed it would happen. It's too late for me to recoup that loss; but now I am concerned that my pension and healthcare benefits are also in peril.
I worked hard all my life believing the government didn't owe me anything. I still feel that way. But I strongly believe that the present situation that Bethlehem (and about 27 other steel companies) finds itself in, was caused largely by the failure of the previous administration to enforce existing trade laws against illegal dumping of artificially low-priced steel.
From your public comments, and those of Vice President Cheney on this subject, I'm confident you will do the right thing with respect to the ITC's 201 recommendations. We are counting on you. The steel employees aren't asking for a handout, and neither are the retirees. They're asking for fairness and a chance -- a last chance -- for the companies to restructure, reorganize and come back stronger. Please help our steel industry to help itself."
"Dear Mr. President
I urge you to give careful consideration to the plight of the American Steel Industry. You have demonstrated your
leadership abilities in the handling of the terrorist situation . The American people are proud of you and are looking
to you for help in these difficult times. Do not let the rest of the world dictate to us . A strong industrial base in this
country is vital to our continuing role as a World leader. We can't help other nations by becoming a Third World Nation
ourselves. Steelworkers are hardworking,patriotic,taxpaying Americans who deserve a chance to compete on a level
playing field and prove, as we have in the past, we are second to none."
"Dear President Bush:
I write to you as a supporter, a contributor to your campaign and as a twenty-five year employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation.
My fellow employees and I are very concerned about the current competitive state of the domestic, integrated steel industry and the effect of unfairly traded, cheap foreign imports that have ruined the American steel market. Since 1998, twenty-seven domestic steel companies including Bethlehem have been forced into bankruptcy and thousands of good paying jobs and pensions for current and future retirees are seriously threatened.
Congratulations on initiating the Section 201 investigation. As you know the U.S. International Trade Commission has confirmed by a 6-0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American Steel Companies and their workers. Five of the six commissioners recommended tariffs to resolve the import problem. Both Bethlehem and I, believe that the appropriate resolution of this damage is to impose a high tariff of 40% and to insist on a significant reduction in inefficient and unproductive foreign capacity that gluts the marketplace with unfairly traded, dumped steel and steel products. Your action to support those objectives would be greatly appreciated.
Equally important to resolving the steel trade problem is a restructuring of the domestic industry. Government can play a significant role in this process by reducing the healthcare burdens of the companies involved to enable them to compete with foreign companies that have national healthcare systems. Similarly Government should provide for the unfunded healthcare burdens of employees of companies that do not survive the rationalization process. However, in providing or supplementing healthcare benefits, we must be careful to assure that quality healthcare remains available at a reasonable price. For example, my wife has a spinal cord injury and requires special therapy that is currently covered under Bethlehem's plan, but would not be covered under medicare or most managed care plans. Accordingly, in restructuring the industry we must provide for
those employees associated with companies that do not survive and assure that specialized coverage remains available to be purchased by those affected at a reasonable price. I respectfully encourage your efforts to aide this restructuring effort.
If the American steel industry is destroyed by cheap imports, we will become dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs. In the long run this will endanger our national security and be harmful to our domestic economy.
Thank you for your help and your consideration in this matter. You have done a superb job in your short time in office."
"Dear Mr. President:
My family is counting on you to make the right decision in the recommendations the ITC made to you after their thorough investigation into the unfair dumping of steel in this country, by almost every one of our trading partners.
I am not amused by the rhetoric I see every day in the press that accuses the US steel industry of being the cause of their own problems. You can have the most efficient business in the world but your not going to compete with somebody who is basically giving away their product.
I also don't buy the scare tactics being used by manufacturing and importing interest groups who claim their sectors have more to lose if you do the right thing, and follow through with the recommendations an impartial panel made, after hearing both sides of the story, and poring over facts and figures.
I read a claim today made by David Phelps. " Garbage in, Garbage out " are the words he used to describe the investigation. That's interesting, I think Mr. Phelps had some input there.
The reason the manufacturers say they are going to lose jobs is "the price of steel will rise so our products made from steel will become too expensive." To that claim I say, "Steel is selling at prices not seen since the 60's and 70's. I haven't seen your prices decrease by anywhere near that amount."
Anybody who claims to be a free trader should be very wary of letting our industry collapse, and replacing it with ones that are kept artificially healthy by foreign powers. After a while, market forces will expose the problems they have, but not until our industry is gone!
Please Mr. Bush. Do the right thing. Follow the advice of the panel that you directed to investigate this problem. Level the playing field.
Go for the 40% tariffs recommended to you by the impartial panel. Don't listen to the garbage that is still being piled on after the inquiry.
Steel was the material of choice when we were selling it for a profit. And our manufacturers can get the highest quality steel right here in the USA. I very much doubt their industries are at risk."
"President Bush,
I am from Morgantown, PA. I am originally from
WV. I left there in 1967 and graduated from West Point in 1971. I served
5
years in the Army and joined a very profitable dynamic Lukens Steel in
1976.
Please act quickly to install the recommended tariffs to protect our
industry from further erosion.
I have worked as a member of management in the steel plate industry since
1976. Since the early 80's I have seen foreign steel imported and sold in
this country unfairly. I don't mean at a lower price, but at a price well
below the cost of production and transportation from their country. In
almost every administration there have been trade cases filed and won by
the
industry only to have the tariffs waived off in favor of political gains
with the interested foreign governments and to the detriment of the steel
industry. The result has been an ever shrinking steel industry. I
initally
worked for Lukens Steel in Coatsville, PA and now work in its sister plant
in Conshohocken, PA. We were bought 3 years ago by now bankrupt Bethlehem
Steel.
IF THE ADMINISTRATION HAD ACTED PROPERLY OVER THE LAST 20 YEARS,
BETHLEHEM
AND LUKENS WOULD HAVE GROWN AS THE DEMAND FOR STEEL HAS GROWN. AS A
RESULT
OF THE GOVERNMENT'S INACTION THEY HAVE SHRUNK FROM 130,000 EMPLOYEES TO
13,000 EMPLOYEES. WE ARE AT A POINT NOW WHERE THE WORK FORCE CANNOT
SUPPORT
THE NUMBER OF RETIREES. WE PRODUCE STEEL AS EFFICIENTLY AS ANYONE IN THE
WORLD BUT CAN'T PAY THE LEGACY COSTS. STATED MORE BLUNTLY, IF THE
GOVERNMENT HAD DONE ITS JOB OVER THE LAST 20 YEARS BY INSTALLING
RECOMMENDED TARIFFS, WE WOULDN'T BE WHERE WE ARE NOW! THE GOVERNMENT IS
RESPONSIBLE AND SHOULD INSTALL THE TARIFFS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND SHOULD
ALSO PICK UP THE LEGACY COST AS NEEDED TO MAKE FURTHER CONSOLIDATION
POSSIBLE AND SAVE THIS INDUSTRY FROM DESTRUCTION.
Just for the record, if US STEEL had not purchased Marathon Oil and then
spun them off ATTACHING their (US Steels's) legacy cost, THEY WOULD
PROBABLY
BE IN BANKRUPTCY LIKE BETHLEHEM.
We are the largest producer of armor plate in this country. I sure hope
we
don't get to where we have to ask China, Korea, or Russia for our armor
requirements. If Bethlehem goes Chaper 7 this country stands a good
chance
of losing its armor source. We also do a lot of armor production for
England, Canada, and Israel. THIS WILL ALL END THIS SUMMER IF YOU DO NOT
ACT
ON THE TARIFFS AND THE LEGACY COST.
Thanks in advance for you help."
"Dear President Bush,
You asked America to give you the chance to lead this great nation, and its people into the 21st century, and we delivered by electing you as our President. Now is the time for you to step up and do your part, and deliver to the American people your promise of leadership. Now is the time to lead America into the future.
From local to state governments thousands of communities are in crisis. America cannot be the dumping ground for the world's economies. We are losing millions of tax paying jobs, and tax paying industries to bankruptcies and liquidations. The American people cannot stand for the foreign dumping, and subsidized products that are flooding our markets.
How do we turn the economy around? We protect and build American industry. We keep and create good paying jobs that support the tax base, and standard of living America enjoys. We preserve the dignity of all workers no matter what their occupation may be.
American does have trade laws, and those trade laws need to be enforced. While the rest of the world laughs at us for our lack of courage, they restricted their markets from us. They send their excess products here at below cost just to keep their people working.
The trade deficit is and should be an embarrassment to the commerce department and all government administrations that has incurred one. Billions of dollars are leaving the country not coming in.
The time has come for action. You have responded with great authority in the crisis of Sept 11. Now is the time for action for the working people of America. From the farm fields to the shop floors the American worker awaits a remedy to save their jobs.
I urge you Mr. President to start with the STEEL CRISES, and support the trade solution the ITC has recommended. Please don't forget any industry in trouble they all need your help.
Save America and save her jobs. Show the world and the American people you are their leader. Stand up for steel your people need you now. Your industry needs you now. Your country needs you now. Act now before it's to late.
As one of our great presidents once said, "I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country. As a result of the war corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until all wealth is aggregated in a few hands and republic is destroyed." -----Abraham Lincoln 1864
May God bless you and give you the strength to save your country."
"Mr. President,
Thank you for ordering the Section 201 investigation regarding the steel imports. I am writing to urge you to do two things.
Implement strong tariffs on unfairly traded steel imported into our country. - The Steel Industry is not asking for a handout � just a fair and level business playing field. Implement tariffs that will show other countries that the �US� is open for trade but they must trade fairly. Implementing tariffs that are stronger that recommended by the ITC will show other countries that we welcome global trading but strongly discourage unfair trade by issuing heavy penalties for damaging our domestic industries.
Help steel with legacy costs - This will help facilitate industry consolidation, capacity reduction and the ability to compete with other foreign steel industries that have government-subsidized health and other costs.
I have worked 35 years for Bethlehem Steel. Don�t leave me and 130,000 other Bethlehem Steel employees, retirees and their dependents out in the cold without jobs or retirement benefits that we have worked so hard for, and for so long.
Think about us - working swing shifts around the clock, working weekends and holidays for thirty years or more to provide for our families - working toward the goal of retirement with health care and pension benefits to supplement our Social Security. Achieving this goal is a shared American Dream. Please don�t let it become a nightmare.
Act today � So many people are counting on you and congress."
"Mr. President
I am an employee of Bethlehem Steel and have spent my whole working life,
over 39 years, with the company. I am not the exception; thousands of my
fellow current employees (there aren't that many left today - maybe 13,000
compared to 130,000 when I started in 1962) and retirees (now about
70,000)
can say the same thing. For about the last 20 years its been a tough
business (with the exception of a few good, but widely scattered, periods)
but nothing like it is now.
The simple truth is that if meaningful help - more than just bandaids - is
not forthcoming soon this company will follow LTV (and others like it)
into
liquidation and myself, my family, and tens of thousands of employees,
retirees, their families will suffer financially and otherwise due to the
loss of employment, health care, and pensions (in some cases). Due to the
ripple down effect, hundreds of thousands of others not affiliated
directly
with Bethlehem Steel but who do business with or are otherwise affected by
our well-being will likewise be affected.
The help we need is both in the trade area (meaningful tariffs) and
assistance with meeting our so-called "legacy" costs in the pension and
retiree health areas. We don't need or want to just transfer all of those
costs to other taxpayers (in fact, appropriate tariffs may absorb a
significant portion of what legacy costs are transferred).
Depending on your trade or economic philosophy (free-enteprise,
protectionist, etc.) you can debate the wisdom of whether government or
your
Administration can or should do anything. Will it be bad precedent? Many
will say so but if the possibility of setting "bad" precedent is the
over-riding concern, what would ever be done? Do we "deserve" to fail
because of past mistakes or missed opportunities? That, to me, is the
worst
rationale on which to decide this issue (true, there's plenty of blame to
spread around bit where does that leave us).
What I think I do know about this company is this - (1) this isn't one of
those "strategic" bankruptcies designed to shed a legal liability (e.g.,
asbestos), (2) despite some who will say otherwise, it has generally tried
(and succeeded) in treating its various constituencies - customers,
vendors,
employees, shareholders, and communities - fairly and honorably, and (3)
it
has always - at least until the recent bankruptcy filing - tried to live
up
to its obligations.
Thank you for the opportunity to give you (or at least your staff who
screens these matters) my thoughts. The leadership you show on this matter
will greatly affect my future and tens of thousands like me."
"Dear President Bush:
I am writing to request 40% tariffs on imported steel, legacy cost relief
for the steel industry, rebuilding the industrial base of our nation and
continuation of the war on terrorism and drugs.
Thank you for your leadership by initiating the International Trade
Commission Section 201 case on steel imports. Your trade action has been
proven correct by the unanimous ITC vote of 6-0. The steel industry has
been severely harmed by unfairly traded steel. I ask that you impose tariff
remedies of 40% to allow the steel industry the opportunity it deserves to
restructure and continue to serve our country's future needs.
The integrated steel companies are willing to consolidate and shut down some
capacity even though the United States is a net importer of steel. There is
much more excess capacity in the rest of the world as evidenced by the
continual dumping of steel into our market. By shutting down some of our
steel making capacity we are showing the world that we are willing to do our
share to reduce the worldwide excess capacity. The other countries need to
eliminate their excess capacity as well. You can tie the reduction or
removal of tariffs to their reduction of steel making capacity.
The tariffs can serve another critical purpose. That is to relieve the
steel industry's legacy cost burden, pensions and retiree health care. Use
the tariff income to fund the legacy costs of the failing steel companies.
Let the countries that ruined the steel industry help pay for its
restructuring. Let the countries that caused all of the shut downs help
support the people, who were forced into retirement.
If you don't relieve the legacy costs, the integrated steel consolidation
will not happen. No Company will assume those legacy costs when they can
just wait for the steel companies to liquidate and then pick up the pieces
without paying the legacy costs. When that happens, the United States
government will pay the bill. The PGB will pick up the pension costs and
various government programs will be saddled with most of the health care
costs.
Either way the United States government will pay the legacy costs of the
ruined steel industry. I believe using the tariffs is by far the best
method. The domestic steel industry is consolidated and restructured in the
least disruptive fashion. The employees of the steel industry, who have
suffered through many facility closures in recent years, will not be
subjected to more shut downs and restarts of facilities.
To those who oppose these steps, I ask, 'Do you want our great country to be
dependent on foreign steel?" The September 11 tragedy should have opened
all of our eyes. The United States has many enemies. We must remain strong
to protect our freedom and that of the rest of the world.
I applaud your handling of the terrorist threat. Don't ever relent in the
war on terrorism and the drug trade that supports it. The terrorists laugh
at the way they use drugs to destroy our society and the drug money to
attack us.
Keep America strong! Rebuild the steel industry. Then rebuild the rest of
our industrial base.
Thank you for your leadership as you guide our country through these
difficult times.
God bless America!"
" Dear Mr. President;
I have spent a fair amount of time trying to determine what argument I
could use to urge you to implement the tariffs recommended by the US
International Trade Commission. I do not believe that the government has
an
obligation to support private companies. I do however believe that
Bethlehem has been acting responsibly for the past several years by
closing
less efficient operations (Bethlehem Plant, the Bar, Rod and Wire
Division,
plate mills, etc.) and has been active in mergers (Luckens Plate). This
has created a good part of our current financial difficulty. As we have
closed divisions, we have moved active employees into retirement. I do
not
feel that these former employees should be denied their retirement due to
the policies of your predecessor. I have been involved in several
modernization projects as well as programs which have significantly
reduced
our costs and improved our quality. I believe that our quality and costs
are comparable to any of our competitors. I also believe that
transporting
steel from overseas into the manufacturing base of theis country is not
cheap.
Most of the world value's US dollars. We provide a stable currency in
an unstable world. In order to obtain these dollars, our competition is
more than willing to export their products at below cost of production. I
well understand that other industries have suffered from similar assaults
and have been decimated. I must question, at what point does the United
States draw the line and say that we will no longer accept the import of
other countries unemployment? At some point we will eliminate the
manufacturing base in the United States. I fully understand that by
bringing in cheap imports we can improve our standard of living. However,
I
question if we will be able to afford it. I have no problems with imports
as long as we have the exports to pay for them. With the decline in the
manufacturing base, the United States will lose the area with the highest
productivity multiplier. This is the area where improvements in
technology
provide the largest boost to the economy. I am very concerned that a
"service economy" will not allow the United States to maintain our
standard
of living.
I realize that your time is extremely valuable and that there are
numerous pressing issues. However, I do request that you take the time to
impose the appropriate 40% tariffs on imported steel. May the Almighty
bless you, your family and our country. Thank you for your time and
consideration."
"Dear President Bush:
I'm writing to you today, not only as a current employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation, but also as
a Retired Officer of the U.S. Army Reserve.
My concern as an active employee is the protection of my job, and also my benefits, especially those
covering the cost of health care. My concern as an Army officer is that we preserve a domestic steel industry
capable of supporting our nation's military, energy and infrastucture needs. (For example, Bethlehem supplies
steel plates for armor, offshore drilling rigs, and bridges--we're a major supplier for each of these
applications.)
Accordingly, this is to request that our government take the following actions--
* Imposition of a 40% tariff on imported steel.
* Support of the steel industry's proposals for legacy cost relief.
Just as we need to become less dependent on foreign oil, we also need to become less dependent on
offshore steel !
Thank you for your consideration of this request."
"Dear President Bush,
Please be aware of the consequences of your upcoming decision regarding
the fate of American steel industry.
Despite the Commerce Department's recently-stated opinion regarding the
irrelevance of a stable fully-integrated domestic steel industry to our
national security, please realize that our national defense as well as
our country's entire manufacturing base and economic foundation all rely
on the ready availability of the high-grade, complex-alloy steels that
only come from fully-integrated steel mills.
It's this simple: it all begins with steel and without steel- it all
ends.
All the products that Americans use every day- anything as simple as a
pencil or as sophisticated as an automobile- were manufactured on
machines made of steel. Every weapon, instrument or piece of equipment
that a soldier carries into battle was created by machinery made out of
steel- even if that item itself contains no steel whatsoever.
Perhaps this is overlooked by some folks inside-the-beltway, but out
here in the industrial heartland those of us who don't mind a little
dirt under our fingernails to make, repair, and operate the machines
that manufacture everything: everything from potato chips to computer
chips. from bubblebath to barbed wire. from artificial flowers to
artificial hearts. from razor blades to rifles. know very, very, well
that everything owes its existence to steel.
Once again, the issue is this simple: It all begins with steel and
without steel- it all ends.
Please consider this when you make your decision regarding the 201
petition tariffs."
"President Bush,
I have worked in the steel business for 28 years and 11 months. Approximately 25 years of my career were with Lukens, Inc. and almost 4 years with Bethlehem Steel Corporation since they acquired Lukens in 1998. I have spent almost my entire career in the transportation field within the steel industry. It has provided my family and I a great living and our three children a Penn State University education. One of our sons, a graduate engineer and the father of three daughters is also currently enjoying a living in the steel industry as a Production Manager.
Thank you and I congratulate you for initiating the 201 investigation. We are anticipating your help with the consolidation of the American steel industry and with a 40% tariff to restrict the massive amount of cheap foreign steel that is being dumped in the US and eliminating thousands of jobs in our steel industry
In view of what is happening in the world today , I am very concerned that we are loosing the capability to make steel as a result of the cheap imports. One of the plants where I worked is Coatesville ,PA which produces quality specialty steel plates used for bridges, battle ships, tanks and other special applications. If the American steel industry is destroyed by cheap imports and we would be dependent on foreign producers then our national security as well as our economy will be endangered.
I am very concerned about the American steel industry, my job and my ability to provide for my family. I thank you for any effort to eliminate the cheap imports that currently ruining our industry."
"Dear President Bush,
You are getting more pressure than you need to make a positive decision on our national steel crisis and we pray that you will act on our behalf and not cater to the foreign interests. The trade issue is nearing a decision and complicated as it is, we are counting on you to take strong measures that will contribute to a national steel rebound. This country needs to get tough on foreign trade and set the stage for what is to be done and not let other interests win this trade war by ignoring our laws and ethics. Please use your global leadership to demand respect on the trade rules. Let the world know that we will not tolerate their pressure of trade threats and we will do what is necessary to force our FREE TRADE. Let the world know that only FREE trade will suffice. I have recently heard you speak on these issues and I know that you strongly believe in trade supporting our jobs. However, illegal trade (dumping) must be controlled. Illegal trade must not be tolerated! Please put strong teeth in our trading agreement and set the tariffs accordingly. Tell the world that the united states will not bow to foreign children working in factories for pennies and we will not condone unfair trade. Tell them that we will not consider their unethical undercutting of our lifestyle to support their pockets.
Please put the steel industry, its health-care, pensions and retirees back in the game of a fair playing field. We pray that you will support the trade recommendations."
"Dear Mr. President
I have been an employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation for almost 38 years
and have spent all of that time in the sales and marketing area. I am a
middle manager who has testified in 1996, 1998 and 2000 in front of the
International Trade Commission. In each instance we received relief on
Plate
Products, but in none of the cases did the relief granted accomplish it's
goal of stopping the trade abuses - they just moved to another part of the
world. With this in mind, I fully support the concept and implementation
of
the 201 Investigation.
I urge you to impose the maximum tariff of 40% recommended by some of the
ITC commissioners on all sheet and plate products in their recommendation.
A
piecemeal strategy has not worked in the past and will not in the future.
I
am aware of the complexities of international trade, but the steel
industry
has paid an extremely high price over the last 20 years and the remedies
tried in the past have not worked.
Much of the steel industry is in serious financial trouble and a piece of
the solution is enforcement of our trade laws. I am aware what other
countries do for their steel industries and the steps their governments
take
to assist them - we deserve no less.
I thank you for your attention and hope you can assist a proud industry in
getting back on it's feet."
"Dear President Bush,
I strongly urge you to support the recommendations made by the ITC regarding steel imports. Our American steel industry is in need of your help and support. Without the requested/recommended 40% tariff on all imported steel products the domestic steel industry can not compete in today's market. There needs to be some sort of balance in this economic playing field. How is American free enterprise expected to compete against the foreign steel producers, when many of their steel companies are subsidized by their governments, allowing such an excessive surplus of foreign steel? If there is not a global based market for these country's steel products, why is America the preferred dumping ground? Because there is no penalty for this practice. The ITC has determined that the steel "dumping" has severely injured our American steel industry. Trade agreements in a global economy are great, but all parties need to meet the same standards and practices before they are allowed to sell their products in our country. Our steel industry is required to meet all Federal and local regulations governing operations, safety, and environmental concerns, whereas foreign countries have fewer, if any, such regulations. How can we compete against steel that is brought to this country and sold for less than what it cost them to produce it?
As a steelworker with more than 25 years service, it is hard to believe that such giants of American industry have been brought to their knees by these unfair practices. We are on the verge of not only losing jobs but a part of our approximate 150 year history, our once strong industrial heritage.
My hopes and prayers are with you. I know these are trying times for our nation and that you have tremendous concerns and responsibilities. May your faith in God guide your decisions."
"Mr. President, I am an employee of Bethlehem Steel, Burns Harbor, with over 29 years of service. You know the dilemma this industry is in better than I. I pray that you will make the right decisions in regards to the Steel Industry and imports."
"Dear Mr. President Bush
I have been involved with Bethlehem Steel for over 36 years. I started in
a
West Coast facility, when Bethlehem was still at its peak moving ahead
with
ambitious plans to grow. Since that time in the 60's till today, Bethlehem
as I see it has had to close or sell assets on an ongoing basis to stay as
a
viable steel company. I believe it did this to maintain its commitments to
as many remaining active employees and retirees so that they would not
become a burden to the government. Also Bethlehem saw its obligations to
the
Stockholders to stay in business and hold up the value of its stock.
During
this period Bethlehem had continued to invest in new equipment, new
processes, and environmental controls.
This deteriorating history is the consequence primarily of an uneven (
unfair ) international trade environment. The financials of foreign steel
companies were and are based on entirely different basis allowing foreign
imports to be dumped and sold at prices that do not take into account the
social costs that Bethlehem has been paying for (health and retirement
expenses ).. This has been clearly proven in many of the trade cases that
have been won by the Industry. The impact of this also has been made clear
by U.S. International Trade Commission. Bethlehem has run out of ways to
pay
this legacy cost while its foreign and mini mills competitors do not have
this expense. One way or another the government will have to pick up this
cost if Bethlehem shuts down as well as losing tax revenue from the
company
and its employees and effected suppliers. This problem is magnified
obviously by the bankruptcy of 25 or more other companies. Laws are being
broken are we going to do anything about it? Do we mean what we say ?
Not coming up with an effective solution that will allow consolidation and
give the efficient companies a chance to survive will result in the
country
becoming dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs which will
endanger our security and our whole economy.
The 201 investigation was the first time I saw the Government take
initiative to understand the steel industries situation and propose a
solution. I congratulate you for taking this step. Please take the next
step
and impose a 40% tariff, close excess foreign capacity, use the tariff
money
to cover legacy costs so domestic steel companies can consolidate for be
purchased. Please do not walk away from the employees and leave them with
out health care.
I personally want to continue to work in the steel industry for another 10
years and continue to provide leadership in efforts to continue to make
the
facilities the most efficient quality producers in the world. The number
of
high value jobs related to manufacturing continues to decline. Lets make a
stand now to stop this.
I am also concerned about losing my health care benefits and thus reducing
my effective ability to have a reasonable retirement. So much has changed
so
fast requiring demands on my financial resources with out the opportunity
to
save because so much of the savings tools where developed later in my
career
when I had to finance college etc that I have not the savings that a young
person starting today could generate. This is true for many of the steel
industry employee's yet we paid loads of taxes and sent many children to
college. The demographics of the industry employees must be considered."
"I am writing to ask that you take strong action against the massive levels
of cheap foreign steel being imported into this country and jeopardizing
my
impending retirement from the Bethlehem Steel Corporation following 37
years
of employment. These imports have
ruined the American steel market. Since 1998, 27 companies have been
forced
into bankruptcy. Thousands of good paying jobs and pensions for current
and
future retirees are seriously threatened.
On December 7, 2001, the U. S. International Trade Commission confirmed
with
a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American
steel companies and workers. Five of the six commissioners recommended
tariffs to solve the import problem. I congratulate you for
initiating the 201 investigation. Further action is required now.
Specifically: 1. 40% tariffs must be imposed; 2. massive excess foreign
capacity must be shutdown,
I am extremely concerned regarding the security of my pension and health
care benefits following my retirement later in the year.
I look forward to your support on this very critical issue."
"Dear President Bush,
I am taking a few moments today to ask you to take strong action against the huge levels of cheap foreign steel that is being dumped in our country. We have lost too many jobs in America's steel industry. As of today, 27 steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Thousands of good, livable jobs with decent medical coverage and benefits have been lost and this will just keep repeating if something is not done to correct the problems facing all United States steel companies. We can not and should never be dependent on foreign steel. The steel industry is the backbone of our country and we need our manufacturing base in the USA. Please do not let it become extinct. I am very worried about keeping my job if something is not done very soon. I am a current steel employee and after 28 years, I am worried if I am going to receive a pension and if I will have any medical coverage because the the steel industry in our country is struggling to stay alive at all odds. Please give us a fair playing field. Our country needs a strong tax base as well and not thousands more unemployed.
In the last five years, I have written to the President, our senators and congressmen. I received letters acknowledging my concerns but I have not seen any action taken to help remedy the problems. My son has e-mailed and has also written letters to you and our state elected officials as well. I know you are a very busy person but I am afraid time is running out for the steel industry.
Thank you for initiating the 201 investigation. 40% tariffs must be imposed and the foreign capacity must be shutdown. Please help to keep America's steel industry alive and our country secure by not having to depend on foreign producers to supply our needs. We have the best and most efficient workforce in our own country but we need your help in making this a fair playing field in order to survive.
Thank you for your time."
"Honorable George W. Bush:
On a broad scale I want to tell you my wife and I both voted for you and admire your honest/direct approach to problem solving. You have surrounded yourself with cabinet members who have the great intelligence, fortitude, experience and candor, and we thoroughly especially enjoy Rumsfeld, O'Neill and Cheney. Keep up the good work!
I am sending this e-mail also for more personal reasons. I am an employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation which presently is in Chapter 11, not totally because of mismanagement. Cheap foreign steel imports subsidized by many foreign governments have flooded the U.S. market ruining the American steel market. Since 1998, 27 steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Imports have seriously injured American steel companies and workers and this has been confirmed by the ITC's 12/7 6-0 ruling. I congratulate you for initiating the investigation. Imports have pushed steel prices to 20 year lows! Can you think of any industry (especially one so vital to American defense) able to survive under similar conditions? During the Clinton era, we substantiated harm, only to see the Asian economic crisis or something else lead to Clinton inaction.We are running out of time and the time is now to help the steel industry in this time of crisis. You acted promptly in the best interests of the airlines after events of 9/11. The steel industry now needs your help and you are empowered to provide it. I ask you to impose 40% tariffs to stop the cheap steel imports, save my job and others and begin the revitalization of the steel industry for the future!
Thank you for your time and the continued good job you are doing."
"Dear Mr President: The Steel Industry has been decimated by illegal
foreign dumping and subsidies. After spending millions of dollars to have our day
in court through the long process of trade cases and 201 investingations
we have been found to be the injured party. Its is now in your hands to
apply the final judgement. I strongly urge you to apply heavy tariffs (40%) and
to support the industrys proposals for legacy cost relief. The industry
has always supported FREE trade and FAIR trade. Your support will put the
word FAIR back on the table. Thanks for your leadership."
"Dear Mr. President:
I am writing to ask you to take strong action against the massive levels
of
cheap foreign steel that are jeopardizing the future of many American
workers. We are asking that you impose 40% tariffs against the cheap
foreign steel and that you support and assist in the consolidation of the
American steel industry.
Consider that the imported steel has significantly led to 27 companies
being
forced into bankruptcy since 1998. Thousands of good paying jobs and the
pensions and health care benefits of current and future retirees are
seriously threatened. I support you for initiating the 201 investigation
and agree with the findings of the International Trade Commission that
high
levels of imports have seriously harmed American steel companies. I
therefore urge you to take action now by imposing 40% tariffs. Steps must
be taken by foreign countries to reduce excess capacity so that global
production is more balanced within the marketplace.
Personally, I have over 25 years in the steel industry within the Human
Resources field at Bethlehem Steel's Sparrows Point Division. I have seen
the many changes that our company has implemented over the years amounting
to hundreds of millions of dollars. We have an efficient industry. Yes,
some things still need to be changed yet, but more importantly we need a
level playing field in the international arena.
I appreciate your consideration and effective action on these matters."
" Congratulations Mr. President for initiating the 201 investigations.
Now is the time for strong action, 40% tariffs and stop foreign countries from
dumping their government subsidized steel into this country.
As an employee of a domestic steel company working directly with service
centers and OEM accounts, I see 1st hand the unfair prices and
difficulty that foreign steel brings to our industry. I'm very concerned about
losing my job to not only a foreign company but in some cases a foreign
government run company.
Thank you for your support and God Bless America."
"Mr. President
I won't "cut and paste" steel industry statistics into my letter to you as I believe you probably have seen them all before. I will keep it simple in my effort to plead my case for you to please act to help save my job in the steel industry. I know many Americans are hurting now and you have many priorities equal to or more important than this but is also one of the right things to do and we have been in need for quite some time.
I am a metallurgical engineer, by degree, who is married and a father of three great kids that I want to continue to be able to support, but I am very concerned over my future, and therefore theirs. I am very disappointed that the United States of America's government has not taken action to correct the injustice being done by many foreign governments. For years now, I have seen foreign governments subsidizing their steel companies in one way or another to keep many of their people employed at the expense of our people. I know firsthand that the steel industry is not trading worldwide on an even playing field. I believe in free trade if it's fair trade and that is not what's happening in the steel industry.
I still have a Washington Post newspaper clipping posted on my bulletin board from 1-20-1999 that told how Mr.. Clinton betrayed the steel industry. You must do a better job than the last administration did. That's why I voted for you. I believe you will do the right thing, but we here, the 1000 or so employees at PST need it sooner than later!
We have been bleeding for several years now and we need help before our doors are closed for good. We make products here that almost 100 different plants in this country alone used to make. Now there are only two domestic plants that make our main product and we are near closing. Doesn't it make sense that if you were good enough to be one of two survivors in this great country of ours that you would be a pretty sound company financially? But this is not so!
We have a plant that has both old equipment and "state of the art" equipment in it. We could have justified more capital for reinvestment to modernize the balance of the plant but selling values have been cut due to pressures from the foreign mills. Some other product lines have been completely eliminated. Every year since 1995 the selling value of our main product has decreased to the point investment to further modernize could not be justified. Premium product selling values have decreased approximately 30% since 1995. Foreign mills did not reduce their costs by 30% over the same time period. Again I can only offer the uneven playing field we have continued to play on as the major reason for our dilemma. The federal government is supposed to supply the guys in the black and white striped shirt to level the field! Are you coming? The two minute warning has sounded and we are down. Will "GW" come through like John Elway in the past?
We have a good workforce at this location. We are worth it! Labor costs of both the hourly and the salary workforce have been made more efficient through both technology and cooperation. The majority of the steelworkers here are good workers that deserve the opportunity to support themselves and their families as I want to be able to do. I don't think I should have to go to a new career at 42 years old. If the existing laws are enforced we can have the freedom to work at jobs that we are competent at doing!"
" The repair and rebuild of railroad cars has provided to me great professional experience as a steel buyer. The Association of American Railroads regulated the quality and consistency of steel used in our procedures and fabrication. The source was only AAR approved American made steel!
For countless years, we enjoyed that level of quality at acceptable prices particularly in repair and rebuild of pressure vessels and railroad cars of hazardous ladings. It is without any reservation that our steel industry be wholly protected. Please help retain the unsurpassed dedication of our steel workers and the industry that has served us all so extremely well for so long."
"Dear President Bush,
I am writing to ask for your help and support concerning the Steel
Industry Crisis. People oppose the idea of applying tariffs on imported
steel to help offset the legacy cost. Steel is "dumped" into our country,
and while those countries are making money and keeping their people
working,
they are doing it at our expense. We just lost LTV to liquidation. I
doubt that one of the countries that dumps steel here will bid on it. Why
should they when they can produce it and ship it here at a lesser expense?
Mr. Bush, if you don't think that what is happening in our country is
going
to affect many people in a big way try this, tomorrow when you wake up ask
yourself this question - with everything you come in contact with in the
course of the day, is any part of it made out of steel?, starting with the
bed you slept on, the alarm clock that may have woke you up and so on.
Then
after realizing how dependent our nation is on steel, ask yourself do we
really want this industry to go away from us? Do we want to put our fate
in
their hands? I think not.
You helped the airlines in their hour of need and it was the right thing
to
do. Please find it in your heart to act on what the ITC has suggested to
help the steel industry. We have to keep our people working for their
good
and the good of our country. This should not be a political issue, but
rather a moral one. The terrorists that wreaked havoc on our country are
standing by and watching us self destruct. Send them and all countries a
message 'United we will stand.'"
"Mr. President,
I don't want a hand-out, only the chance to compete fairly. Please
implement the ITC recommendations so that we can level the field and gain
the time to save America's Steel Industry. Thank you."
"Dear President Bush,
Please be aware of the consequences of your upcoming decision regarding
the fate of American steel industry.
Despite the Commerce Department's recently-stated opinion of the
irrelevance of a stable, viable,
fully-integrated domestic steel industry to our national security;
please be cognizant that our national defense, and indeed our country's
entire manufacturing base and economic foundation relies on the ready
availability of high-grade, complex-alloy steel that only comes from
fully-integrated steel mills.
It's this simple: it all starts with steel and without steel- it all
ends.
All the products that Americans use every day- anything as simple as a
pencil or as sophisticated as an automobile- was manufactured on a
machine made of steel. Every weapon, instrument or piece of equipment
that a soldier carries into battle and depends upon to complete his
mission was created by machinery made out of steel- even if that item
itself contains no steel.
I've been a machinist for 34 years. For more than a third of a century
I (and others in my trade) have understood that fact quite well.
Perhaps this is overlooked by some folks inside-the-beltway. However,
out here in the industrial heartland those of us who don't mind a little
dirt under our fingernails to make, repair, and operate the machines
that manufacture everything: from potato chips to computer chips. from
bubblebath to barbed wire. from artificial flowers to artificial hearts.
from razor blades to rifles. know very, very, well that everything owes
its existence to steel.
Once again, the issue is this simple: It all starts with steel and
without steel- it all ends.
Please consider this when you make your decision regarding the 201
petition levels."
"Dear President Bush,
I voted for you because I believed you would make our country stronger.
Today, we're all too aware of our enemies efforts to weaken us. I commend
you for your leadership and for all that you have done. May God bless
you.
I worry about the world that our children will inherit.
I am writing to urge you to take action against the cheap foreign imports
which have crippled the American Steel market. Your efforts in initiating
the 201 investigation are to be commended, but immediate action is now
required. Specifically, 40% tariffs must be imposed and massive excess
foreign capacity must be shutdown. As a current employee of Bethlehem
Steel
I am very concerned that if action isn't taken many jobs will be lost and
those who have retired (many of whom have served our nation during
wartime)
will suffer from loss of pensions and healthcare benefits. American
produced steel is what made this country strong both in peacetime and war
and Bethlehem Steel has done a lot to help make our Country strong.
Please
do not let our great nation become dependent on foreign producers to
supply
our needs. The future of our security and economy is at stake. Thank you
for your support and GOD BLESS THE USA."
"Dear Mr. Evans,
I am writing to urge you to take action against the cheap foreign imports
which have crippled the American Steel market. Specifically, 40% tariffs
must be imposed and massive excess foreign capacity must be shutdown. As
a
current employee of Bethlehem Steel I am very concerned that if action
isn't
taken many jobs will be lost and those who have retired (many of whom have
served our nation during wartime) will suffer from loss of pensions and
healthcare benefits. American produced steel is what made this country
strong both in peacetime and war and Bethlehem Steel has done a lot to
help
make our Country strong. Please do not let our great nation become
dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs. The future of our
security and economy is at stake. Thank you for your support and GOD
BLESS
THE USA."
"Dear Mr. President:
I was happy to see you order the intiation of the 201 investigation. After learning their findings agree with everything that I believed was true with unfair trading, I am asking you to put this into effect immediately and to place the highest possible tariffs on this unfairly imported steel. I have worked for Bethlehem Steel 35 years and soon will be retiring. Please help make sure my pension and health care benefits I was promised will still be there."
"This is in regard to your forthcoming decision on implementing the
recommendations of the ITC regarding tariffs on steel imports.
I urge you to put aside the political interests, put aside the special
interest groups, and just do the right thing. Clearly the right thing is
to
implement tariffs as recommended by the ITC. The amount of those tariffs
must be at a level at least equal to, if not greater than, those
recommended
by the ITC.
I offer several points in support of this argument:
1) the ITC ruled unanimously that action needed to be taken to help the
US
steel industry with unfair foreign imports. I do not recall the ITC ever
ruling unanimously on previous steel industry filings. Clearly they are
sending a message here that action is justified and action is needed now.
The ITC may not be unanimous in the details of their proposed remedies,
but
the message remains -- take action now. And tariffs are recommended by
the
majority of the ITC commissioners. Although the steel industry had asked
for average tariffs of 40%, the ITC overall has recommended an average of
about 20%. The tariffs imposed must be substantial in order to get the
job
done, not just be window dressing.
2) world-wide overcapacity -- the recent meeting in Paris on December
17th
and 18th of 2001 resulted in empty promises. While the representatives at
that meeting recognized the problem with world-wide overcapacity, their
voluntary program of reducing production levels is a farce that I doubt
anyone would be gullible enough to believe. Many countries promised
voluntary, gradual reductions in steelmaking capacity if, and only if, we
do
not implement the 201 sanctions. Of course. They can promise anything to
keep us from taking action, but it is obvious they will not follow through
on their promises. Consider an imaginary analogy. Suppose USTR Zoellick
attended a conference concerning the dire straits of Asian automakers.
Suppose that in order to help out, Mr. Zoellick then promised that the US
would cut back on auto production in order to assist the Asian automakers.
What would be the response of GM, Ford and Daimler Chrysler to this
"promise"? The response of the steel companies in the producing nations
that "promised" to reduce capacity will be the same. The representatives
at
the Paris meeting made promises they had no authority to make. Nothing
will
be done.
3) effect on the economy -- USTR Zoellick has asked the ITC for
additional
information on this question. Their response will be based on complex
economic models and will be very authoritative. I can only take the
simple
view. The claims of the steel-consuming industry special interest groups
are without merit. If the tariffs to be imposed resulted in an average of
a
10% price increase for steel, that would result in the price of the steel
in
an average automobile increasing by $60. A refrigerator $5. Are price
increases in steel of $60 for cars costing $20-30,000 going to put 10
autoworkers out of work for every steel industry job saved? I think not!
The steel-consuming industry claims of lost jobs are simply incredulous.
And I would ask you this. In the past year or two when steel prices have
really fallen off a cliff, did these steel consuming industries pass those
savings on to their customers? Did we have price reductions on
refrigerators as a result of savings in steel? Or did these people put
those savings in their pockets as increased profit? And now they don't
want
to lose that increased profit. At the expense of bankrupt steel companies
and their employees.
4) effect on the economy -- pensions and health care. As an employee of
Bethlehem Steel for 29-1/2 years, I have received numerous salary
reductions, cutbacks in benefits, increased premiums for health care, etc.
Now that it is time for me to begin thinking about retirement, I am faced
with the possibility of losing what I've worked for over all that time.
If
Bethlehem does not come out of its Chapter 11 status as an ongoing
enterprise or in a merger with another company, i.e., if Bethlehem goes
Chapter 7, I lose health care and significant pension benefits for the
rest
of my life. All health care benefits would be gone, and the PBGC
guarantees
on pensions are not nearly as all encompassing as they would lead you to
believe. Many of us will take substantial losses in pension, even if
we're
lucky enough to recover anything at all. Not because we're part of the
"elite rich" making huge salaries with huge pensions but simply because of
the details in the rules of the PBGC that are often overlooked. These
losses will be devastating to the individuals affected throughout the
steel
industry, and detrimental to the economy as well.
From a practical viewpoint, also consider the recent spate of bankruptcies
and the potential liability that the PBGC may soon be facing. The PBGC
may
be forced to raise their premiums with ongoing firms in order to support
firms unable to meet their obligations. Here is a chance to be proactive
and help us deal with our pensions effectively and not be a burden to the
PBGC.
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. And I thank you in
advance for your support of the steel industry. I know in my heart and in
my mind that you will DO THE RIGHT THING.
"
" Dear Mr. President,
I am writing to urge you to do all that you can to save America's steel
industry. I am requesting that you not only heed the ITC's recommendation
of 20% tariffs, but also institute the 40% tariffs that the domestic steel
industry needs to recover from illegally dumped foreign steel.
I feel the American people should never have to rely on foreign steel as
we
so heavily rely on foreign oil today. If the integrated mills go under,
the
"mimi-mills" simply do not have the capacity to meet what our economy
demands. Steel is vital to our country's defence and to the recovery and
well being of our economy.
I am not requesting any special considerations. I, along with my union
brothers and sisters as well as steel industry management, only request
that
the worldwide steel industry playing field be leveled. With a level
playing
field we can out-produce and compete with anyone in the world. We have
proven this time and time again.
I would also ask that you do what is necessary to clear the way for the
consolidation of the domestic steel industry by supporting H.R.808.
America's future depends on it. It's not too late - but time is of the
essence.
Please act firmly and swiftly to stop the dumping of steel on our shores,
and to save American jobs. Food for thought Mr President - I have heard
it
mentioned that the imposition of tariffs would anger our steel-making
trade
partners such as Brazil, Japan, and South Korea, among others. I ask you
now sir, what was their concern about the American families being put out
of
work and on the street as a direct result of their illegal trade
practices?
I compliment you on the steps you have already taken to remedy this
situation."
"Dear Sir.
It would seem to me, that, as the leader of the Greatest Country in the World, you would protect us from any harm.
I guess, I was completely wrong about my leader. He has yet to show me that he truly cares about his Americans, and the American people that keep this Great country of ours on it's feet.
I'm a ' Viet-Nam' Veteran,and I'm very grateful that I was able to do my part, to try and help a country that asked for our help.
Now, since when do you let other countries dictate to us, "WHAT" and "HOW MUCH" you let us get, to," WE'RE" telling you what "WE'RE"sending and taking ?
We've been standing TALL ever since we decided to stand up for our right's, and tell the English "where to go".
I think it's time to take a stand against them that are putting us out of business, and by that I mean "OUR COUNTRY".
Please don't let the other turncoats tell you not to pass the '201' bill. We need it to keep us a fairly respectable entity, in this world.
Thank you for listening."
"Dear Mr. President
I am Vice President of Sparrows Point Division.
First and foremost I voted for you... I am a free trader, but a fair
trader...and I have been with Bethlehem Steel for 14 months. I left GE to
come to Bethlehem because of previous experience and a sincere desire to
have a career in the Steel Industry. I chose Bethlehem because of its
great
history and the wonderful asset here in Baltimore - come visit us.
As I have learned more about steel, I have concluded that much of our
current issues in legacy costs are a direct result of government, in fact,
presidential interference up into the 1970's. My once great corporation
has
become a pension and health care supplier with our 12000 employees
carrying
100000 souls on their backs. I am up for any task - but in this, we will
fail. Taxpayers will pay far more in the long run than our proposal.
I am asking you for three things:
1. Stop subsidized steel from coming into the country. We need active
tariffs to overcome the damage...the village is burned, just closing the
gate at this stage is not a help. The arguments against this approach are
flawed. Steel makes up 700 dollars of a vehicle...the vehicle is 35000
dollars. The automotive companies are not being straight with you. Steel
prices are down from the late 70s...how about automotive pricing?
2. Apply the tariffs and use that money to help those that were
damaged...our pensioneers. Applying the damages to those hurt cannot be
more
simply done.
3. Help us with industry and global consolidation.
Mr. President..make no mistake..there are 3500 people in Baltimore
depending
on you and you specifically. I need your help to save this company for our
current employees and their families. You have my commitment and I hope
for
your support. You will have my vote in 2004."
"Dear President Bush:
I am a Republican, strong supporter of free trade and an employee for
Bethlehem Steel Corporation (believe it or not, these are not mutually
exclusive). I have worked in several different industries over my 15 year
career and can honestly say that majority of the domestic steel industry
has
made great strides ( and huge investments) over the past 10 years to
become
a truly world class, efficient & low cost producer of steel ( an
investment
that I believe is far greater than that made by many other American
companies which remain yet untouched by the un-winnable task of competing
with a foreign government!).
In spite of these great strides, the industry has been plagued by the
daunting task of competing with massively subsidized foreign steel
producers
(subsidies often surreptitiously achieved through foreign government
"programs" to promote social goals or simply to obtain desperately needed
U.S. currency ). These foreign competitors have not succeeded due to
superior production facilities, management talent, or even lower labor
costs, but rather through direct or indirect government policies to
promote
production & exportation of steel to the most open market in the world (
that's right, good old USA!).
The US domestic steel industry is far from the bloated, mismanaged, dying
industry that it's adversaries would have you believe, but rather it is an
industry struggling to continue to evolve as an innovative and efficient
industry ( with a vibrant & competitive domestic environment, as
exemplified
by the many relatively new "mini-mill" operations). These efforts has been
thwarted by intense pressure from hundreds of foreign producers selling
steel into the US market at almost any price ( I am a field sales
representative for Bethlehem and have seen first hand the aggressive
tactics
and seemingly bottomless pricing offered by trading companies in pursuit
of
additional sales volume with US customers).
I am proud to represent and work for Bethlehem Steel and would rate it's
management and employees on par with any in the US. This once proud
company
has been brought to it's knees by the never ending steam of imported steel
( Bethlehem, along with at least 27 other domestic steel companies, was
forced to file for chapter 11 bankruptcy in October). We have, and
hopefully
will continue to have a vibrant domestic steel industry.
I would implore you to act swiftly & decisively in implementing the
recommendations of your U.S. International Trade Commission. We need,
deserve and respectfully ask for your help.
Thank you for your consideration & concern."
"As you are well aware, the domestic steel industry has been devastated by
cheap imports which has depressed prices to levels last seen ten years
ago.
The industry including Bethlehem has been cutting costs and people to the
point where we are very competitive on a straight man-hour per ton basis
required to make steel.
However, as much as we have reduced our costs, prices have decreased more
and faster.
There is no doubt that mistakes and bad decisions have been made in the
past
but Bethlehem has made great strides to be competitive. But it is still
not
good enough because foreign competition continues to look at American
markets as a place to unload their excess capacity. The world over
capacity
continues to keep prices depressed. Yes world capacity needs to be reduced
but the US should not be expected to shoulder all the reduction simply
because we choose not to subsidize or protect our own steel industry.
The US steel industry needs to consolidate and further reduce capacity. To
that end we need some near term help to make that practical.
1. Tariffs on imported steel. The recommendation of the trade commission
should be considered as the absolute minimum acceptable with higher
tariffs
preferred.
2. Some means to mitigate the legacy cost acquired over the years by the
continual shrinking of the industry. If the steel industry is allowed to
sink, much of this cost will fall back on the government anyway. Are we
not
better off to give a short term helping hand and have the possibility of
getting it back from a healthy although smaller steel industry ?
3. The cost of a failed domestic steel industry will ripple through the
economy with devastating results. To the workers, their local communities
(schools, towns, libraries, etc.) and the states through reduced taxes and
higher unemployment costs.
Your help and consideration would be greatly appreciated."
"President Bush, I am writing to thank you for initiating the 201
investigation concerning what I consider unfairly traded steel imports
coming into the United States. I talked at length with my Congressman
last
January and was saddened that former President Clinton did not have the
wherewithal or concern for American citizens employed by our domestic
steel
companies to start the investigation. President Bush, once again thanks
for
your commitment in starting the 201 investigation, and caring about the
men
and women of our great country who are employed by our nation's steel
industry.
President Bush, I am asking for your help by recommending to the
International Trade Commission (ITC) to set tariff's at 40% over the
next
four years for steel being brought in to our country's borders.
President Bush, I am asking for your support in recommending to the ITC
the
importance of consolidation/mergers for our country's steel industry.
President Bush, I am also asking that you recommend to both Houses the
importance of getting the American steel industry back on stable ground
by
working out an equitable solution to help with legacy costs.
Consolidation
can only take place with relief of legacy costs.
President Bush, I have been employed by Bethlehem Steel for 13 years,
and
I
have also served my community as an elected city councilman the past 14
years. I have seen the torn faces of co-workers and my constituents in
Northwest Indiana the past couple of years suffering from unemployment.
Many of these people have lost their homes. Municipal, Township, and
County
governments can not supply Northwest Indiana residents with services,
especially safety & health services, due to the steel bankruptcies and
loss
of tax revenue. Bethlehem Steel paid their taxes for over 30 years and
was
a proud corporate citizen in helping local Northwest Indiana communities
until filing for chapter 11.
President Bush the steel industry needs immediate help, and I am asking
for
your help in working with our federal government to keep the dream of
making
steel in America a reality for the future.
President Bush, Nucor Steel, a mini-mill manufacture of steel reliant on
scrap steel recently changed their position and is asking our federal
government for help on the same issues brought forth by the fully
integrated
steel companies of our great country.
President Bush I ask that you rule favorably for the American steel
industry
based on the facts submitted to the ITC on or before March 6, 2002.
President Bush, on a final note I want to thank you for being a great
leader
and helping the many families that suffered the loss of loved ones from
the
terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. My prayers are with you as you
guide our country toward freedom from terrorism and into economic
recovery.
President Bush you are a great leader. Thanks, for giving me an
opportunity
to express my concerns and God bless you and your family."
"Mr. President - Sir:
Well this is the 1st letter I ever written to a government official but I vote every election.
Simply stated, I'm writing because I'm upset. However, I do not believe you will ever see this letter
but I writing anyway because I do believe in free enterprise, "fair trade" & America, and need to express myself.
What has happen to the Steel Industry the last 18 months is not what I would call FAIR TRADE unless it's to dump foreign excess capacity at rock-bottom prices into the US & damage our industry / people deeply.
I have worked for Bethlehem Steel for 29 years & will be 62 in a few weeks. Needless to say, I have seen a lot including management changes and the application of high tech to the manufacturing processes. Steel is NOT a blue collar industry. To make high quality steel requires the full application of network and computer technology. I've also seen full modernization, facilities upgraded, downsizing, outsourcing, consolidation (Lukens Steel), modified supply chain processes, shut-downs, etc. Bethlehem Steel Plants, especially the Sparrows Point Plant, Baltimore, Md & Burns Harbor Plant, Ind,, I would compare to the best-of-the best any where in the World especially in the USA.
Bottom Line: we did what we were had to do & were supposed to do. Now, we are in Chapter 11 due to the last 18 months. HELP!
Steve Miller, our new CEO used a very simple chart which compared steelmaking capacity of foreign steel companies to the USA dwarfs - it says it all. I do not believe any international agreements will reduce steel capacity or aid the "surviving" USA Steel Companies (which will also fail over a longer time period). We need to consolidate asap & need our government to help us do it; there's no longer time for political talking & studies
The US Government needs to aid the Steel Industry solve the legacy health care problem & facilitate consolidation. Applying 40% tariffs across the board on steel imports, applying those dollars to steel's health care over the next 4 years, & fast tracking the consolidation of the US Steel Industry sounds correct to me. Maybe it's not fair but what is fair play in resolving the foreign damage.
Next time you look for armor plate to repair a damage a USS Coyle (Bethlehem Steel Lukens - Conshohocken) or wish you had an outstanding corrosion warranty on a new car, you may not have a Steel Industry in the USA to rely upon.
The time to act is NOW; however, I truly afraid all the Politician will do is TALK - THAT WHICH THEY DO BEST!
I'm seriously upset because I think Bethlehem Steel will follow LTV into a 'fire sell' too. Pensions & benefits will be lost; lives will be destroyed, dreams gone, & in the long term the US Government will have to assume the cost any way.
I will taken my Retirement soon because I do not believe anything positive will occur.
Make me wrong, Mr. President!
I would love to hang in there & help the Consolidation of the USA Steel Industry."
"Dear Mr. President :
As I send this e-mail to you, I am looking out of my office window at a shell of a vacant steel production facility which unfortunately is but one of many such facilities in our country. This shell however, was once a proud, vital part of our country's manufacturing base which is being compromised by massive levels of illegal imports.
On a personal level, this facility provided a decent standard of living for generations of both my and my wife's family who worked a combined total of over 600 years at " The Steel ". I owe it to them to remain silent no longer, but to speak out and try to make a difference.
It is too late to save the plant which produced steel for the Golden Gate Bridge, George Washington Bridge, US Supreme Court, much of the New York City skyline, and armaments for every one of our country's wars from the Spanish-American through Vietnam wars. However, it is not too late to prevent the loss of this core industry which is under severe attack from offshore interests.
Now is the time for bold action in the form of the 40% tariffs which have been recommended to you by the U.S. ITC as well as the time for the shutdown of massive excess foreign steel capacity. Since 1975, I have been involved in studies, planning and implementing decisions to shutdown many significant steel production and related facilities at Bethlehem Steel. Now is the time for foreign producers to do likewise.
Now is not the time for half-hearted measures designed to give lip service to constituents. I urge you to do the right thing and support our national interest. Your actions on this issue will make a very real difference for countless thousands of current employees, their beneficiaries, retirees, and untold others in support as well as derived businesses. Thank you for your consideration."
"President Bush,
During the 2000 presidential election, I wrote to you as a concerned democrat. I realized our country suffered in many ways during the previous 8 years. Most of us now clearly see that the events of September 11th were directly related to an 8-year belief that if one ignores terrorism, it might just go away. Domestic manufacturing terrorism during that same period has eroded a once proud and strong American Steel industry into a dangerously fragile and weak shell of it's former self.
I am a proud third generation employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation. My Grandfather began working for Bethlehem Steel in 1908. He labored in the Bethlehem, Pa. Steel Mill for over 52 years. My father added another 37 years and I am at 28 years and counting as I continue this proud tradition into 2002.
As you continue to lead our country in a magnificent effort to defeat terrorism abroad, I respectfully ask you to positively act on the unfair war being waged on the American Steel Industry. Cheap foreign imports have ruined our proud industry. Bankruptcy is a word that has become synonymous with American Steel. It is now time for an American President to forcefully respond with a simple phrase, enough is enough.
I congratulate you for initiating the 201 investigation. Further action is needed, and in a hurry. The 40% tariffs for 4 years must be imposed. Massive excess foreign capacity must be shutdown. We only ask for an even playing field, a fair chance to compete.
I worry everyday about my Mom and Dad's pension and benefits. I also worry about current employment and taking care of my family. I live and breathe steel. It's a part of me and always will be. There's nothing quite like the smells and sounds of being in the Mill. Steel is a part of the American culture. If Steel, this powerful friend of all that is good about America is left to die a shameful death, Americans will be a little less safe tomorrow. Continued cheap imports will destroy the American Steel Industry. Foreign producers will then control our supply needs in the future.
As I told you in October of 2000, I believe you to be a good and honorable man, someone who loves and deeply cares about America. Don't endanger our country by allowing the foreign steel makers to get away with murder. Act now to save the American Steel Industry."
" Dear President Bush,
As a long time (38 yrs.) steel industry employee, Iwould like to add my
voice to those who ask that you take action in line with the ITC
recommendation and impose a 40% tariff on the unfairly priced steel
being brought into this country. Your initiation of the 201 investigation
is greatly appreciated and now is the time to follow up and help return
our industry to a place of strength in the world economic community."
"Dear President Bush,
There is currently a lot of rhetoric surrounding the decision you will be making in the near-term future related to imposing tariffs on imported steel. Today�s WTO ruling certainly will not bode well for the American Steel Industry. I can tell from your speeches to the American public that you like to keep things simple and focused, so I will try to respond in kind.
Was there injury to the American Steel Market? Yes, the ITC validated by a 6 to 0 vote that a number of countries violated our trade agreements, by subsidizing their steel producing industry, causing serious injury to American Steel Industry. Five of the six commissioners recommended tariffs to solve the import problem.
What about the injury to American Steel Worker? In my simple view of the world, the American Steel Industry worker pays a fair amount of taxes. The taxes are used by the US Government to accomplish many things including helping foreign governments with aid (financial or otherwise). The foreign governments subsidize their steel industry in order to provide jobs for their citizens. The subsidized steel shows up as imports to the United States at unfairly traded prices. The imports cause serious injury to the American Steel Industry. The American Steel Industry starts to collapse and begins cutting employee resources. So, the end result is I am required to by law to pay taxes that are used to eliminate my job and people set around and debate if we should do anything to stop it.
What should be done about �legacy cost� relief? The debate should not be whether something should be done, but how can we pay for it. Many companies have elected to preempt this discussion by not offering post-retirement health care benefits. Mini-Mills, EDS, and many other late 20th companies caught onto the debacle caused by post-retirement benefits and elected to let the government (a.k.a., tax payer) pay for it. Steel, Automotive and other 100 year old companies made their choices when retirement age and life expectancy were about the same. Now with technology and medicine, these former behemoth companies have been brought to their knees by the impending legacy costs. Just as we shouldn�t leave soldiers on the battlefield, we shouldn�t leave the companies that have been the economic engine for America in the 20th century on the battlefield of bankruptcy.
Why should the Government (a.k.a, American people) bail out the American Steel Industry? American�s enjoy a standard of living that is based on a three- class economic system. American Steel and other early 20th Century manufacturing companies and the American Unions are the reason that many American enjoy a minimum wage of $5.15 and many other Americans work in factories that pay $10 - $20 per hr for labor. One trip to a foreign country that has a two-class economic system would realize very quickly that we get paid a good and fair wage in America. The major manufacturing base of the 20th Century, especially the American Steel Industry and the Automotive Industry, were the economic engine that fueled the economy we enjoy today.
What about the impending increased costs to the American Consumer if Steel is encouraged to increase it�s price and the ensuing job losses? Of all the rhetoric out there, this is the most absurd. A car has about 1/2 ton of steel and if the average price of steel rose $100, you would add about $50 dollars to the cost of the car. The American consumer buying a General Motors sub-compact pays more for the research required to put �On Star� in a Cadillac that the increased cost of steel would add to their Cavalier. How much do you think you would add to a toaster or a lawn mower? We have serious problems in America and we need serious discussions about how to solve them. These inflammatory statements do nothing but confuse the American people. We need leadership that is prepared to state simply that saving America means saving the American Steel Industry.
Congratulations on initiating the 201 investigation. However, the time for action is now. Whether you choose to fund the Legacy Costs of the America Steel Industry with high tariffs (40%+) or convince the American public that saving America is the always the right choice, imposing tariffs is still the right choice for Americans. We are a country of laws and law abiding citizens. It is unconscionable (as was witnessed in the previous administration) that high ranking government officials can choose to ignore the laws. It was done specifically to a grand jury by the previous administration and it was done to the American Steel Industry by not enforcing our trade laws. We became a lawless government before the very eyes of the American People and that party was told in the election that is not acceptable to be lawless.
Thank you for you consideration and I hope you can find it in your heart and in your administration the strength to Stand Up For Steel."
"The Steel Industry - and extremely hard work on my part -
Put me through college as a single mother - permitted me to purchase a home
and to put my two sons through college. One, currently a lawyer
in Virginia, was Curt Weldon's Intern ten years ago.
A single mother - with no support - with no government money -
with no help - found a career in a male dominated industry -
and through shear determination, survived. Now - as I am looking forward to retirement within the next 6-7 years, after over 30 years in this industry that offered challenge and opportunity, I am for the first time in my life, overwhelmed. Having worked for, counted on, and given this industry my complete energy, my heart cries out for justice. Many nights I stay late - along with many co-workers, trying to keep our business going. Trying to keep the workers in the mill employed and their families fed. Cheap foreign imports have ruined the American steel market and broken the hearts of many fellow employees.
Since 1998, 27 steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy. How can we compete against
companies that are not required to have the same standard in pollution devices and the fare wage scale of the good old USA! Many foreign mills are government supported. The US mills have consistently spend $$$ investing in new equipment, research and training. They have
been paying a huge number of pensions as the industry has made many cutbacks
to improve productivity. At this very plant, we have many men that remember their
grandfathers, men that could not speak English, working for 40-50 years in the mill...then their
fathers spent another 40-50 years, and now after working their hearts out for love of this
company, now after 30 years, they fear the future. Past mill workers purchased our future with their efforts and in some cases with their lives. I wish you could meet some of these college
educated "managers" that are still proud to tell you about how their grandmother worked a
mill-press during "the war". They could have gone on to better jobs (some have), but they love this company - this industry - producing real material - not services. Producing basic steel - real steel - something you can hold, use and something that is essential in our world.
As past president and current board member for AWMI (Association of Women in the Metal Industries), I have personally encouraged women to enter this industry as it was open
to change and offered opportunity. As a result of thousands of good paying jobs and pensions
for current and future retirees in danger, my voice can no longer be positive. No longer
positive about a company that, through building submarines, gave Britain the opportunity to hold back Hitler. No longer positive about two mills, one in Conshohocken, not far from where you were just last week, that were founded by a women, 150 years ago! (the former Lukens Steel Co.) No longer positive about the company that produced the supports for the twin towers in NYC, and
bridges too numerous to mention. Bethlehem Steel - a proud name - and on the brink of dying.
We supply the material for ships, for tanks, and for the very foundations of our industrial existence. Now we are fighting for our lives in a fight that is unfair. On December 7, 2001, the U. S. International Trade Commission confirmed with a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American steel companies and workers. Five of the six commissioners recommended tariffs to solve the import problem. However, you, the President, have full discretion as to the final action. Thank you for initiating the 201 investigation, but the time for further action is now. Specifically: 1. 40% tariffs must be imposed; 2. massive excess foreign capacity must be shutdown. If the American steel industry is destroyed by cheap imports, we would be completely dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs. This will endanger our
national security and our whole economy. When I-95 had a major disaster, we were able to produce and deliver the plate required within 48 hours, enabling the fabricator to be a hero, and N-S traffic to flow freely across the county. How will this happen when the nearest mill is in South America? I voted for you - believe in you - depend on your judgment - Please consider the consequences of free but un-fair trade."
"Mr. President,
I am a steelworker and have been one for the last 32 years. I am concerned about my job and my future retirement benefits. The cheap foreign imports over the last few years have seriously hurt the US steel industry. There have been 27 steel companies forced into bankruptcy sine 1998. There are thousands of workers who gave their working years to American steel production and now they are facing an insecure future.
On Dec. 7, 2001, the US International Trade Commission voted 6 to 0 that the high levels of imports have seriously injured the American steel companies and workers. I want to thank you for initiating this investigation and urge you to impose the 40% tariff on foreign imports. I believe the American steel industry is an integral part of our country�s strength and security."
"Dear President Bush:
I am writing to ask for your help in preserving the American Steel
Industry. I have been employed at Bethlehem Steel's Burns Harbor Plant
for
the last 25 years in a salaried position. I have worked hard at my job
and
have felt good about the contributions that I have made to the operation
of
this plant. Facing the loss of my job is frightening on a personal level,
but there is a great sadness in the knowledge that this entire industry
could be lost. I am actually a third generation steelworker and the plant
that my Grandfather, Father and Uncle worked at in Pennsylvania closed its
doors last year.
With your help in imposing the 40% tariffs against unfairly priced foreign
steel and your assistance in facilitating the consolidation of the
American
Steel Industry, hopefully, future generations of Americans can say with
pride that they are Steelworkers.
Thank you very much for taking the time to listen and thanks in advance
for
your help."
"Dear President Bush,
I am writing to urge you to please act quickly regarding the ITC
recommendations to impose a program of tariffs and quotas on unfairly
traded
imported steel. Every day is important to me and others like me who have
invested our lives in the domestic steel industry (in my case, Bethlehem
Steel) and have seen it brought to its knees by foreign imports.
I appreciate your initiating the original 201 investigation. I believe
the
findings speak for themselves as the commission voted unanimously that
severe damage has been done. Please help us restructure the domestic
steel
industry, including our health care legacy costs, so we can continue to be
a
vital force for national security and, ultimately, peace around the world.
In closing, Mr. President, I want you to know that my prayers, and the
prayers of many of my close friends, continue to be with you. We pray for
your safety, the safety of your family, and that you would clearly discern
wise counsel from your advisors. We feel blessed to have such a godly man
leading our nation."
"Dear President Bush,
I am writing to urge you to take action against the cheap foreign imports
which have crippled the American Steel market. Your efforts in initiating
the 201 investigation are to be commended, but immediate action is now
required--40% tariffs must be imposed and massive excess foreign capacity
must be shutdown. As a current employee of Bethlehem Steel I am very
concerned that if action isn't taken many jobs will be lost and those who
have retired (many of whom have served our nation during wartime) will
suffer from loss of pensions and healthcare benefits. American produced
steel is what made this country strong both in peacetime and war. Please
do
not yet our great nation become dependent on foreign producers to supply
our
needs. The future of our security and economy is at stake.
Thank you for your support and GOD BLESS THE USA."
"Dear President Bush,
Thank you for your role in initiating the 201 investigation regarding the
serious injury imposed on the domestic steel industry as a result of cheap
foreign imports. As you know, the ITC has determined that tariffs of at
least 40% be imposed to restore equity in fair pricing. In addition,
significant foreign excess capacity must be eliminated, as well as a
rationalization of the domestic industry.
As an employee of Bethlehem Steel Corporation for 30 years, I am concerned
about the viability of my corporation, my local plant, and my ability to
continue my term of employment. I have witnessed many outstanding
colleagues who have lost their jobs as a result of the severity of this
situation. I also am concerned as to the retirement and health care
benefits which may or may not await me, and the well-being of my family.
You are aware that Bethlehem has been taking an active role in those items
it has some control over, such as aggressive cost reductions, including
the
present discussions with represented labor, and has taken the initiative
in
industry consolidation discussions.
Unfortunately, we can not do it alone, and need the active involvement of
our government or this situation will result in even greater consequences
than the 27 companies who have already been forced into bankruptcy. As
such, we ask for your swift and strong action to support this industry
which
is basic and critical to our nation's economy, defense, and wellbeing."
"Dear President Bush:
I am writing to urge you to do all that you can to save America's steel industry. I am requesting that you not only heed the ITC's recommendation of 20% tariffs, but also institute the 40% tariffs that the domestic steel industry needs to recover from illegally dumped foreign steel.
I feel the American people should never have to rely on foreign steel as we so heavily rely on foreign oil today. If the integrated mills go under, the "mini mills" simply do not have the capacity to meet what our economy demands. Steel is vital to our country's defense and to the recovery and well being of our economy.
I am not requesting any special considerations. I, along with my union brothers and sisters as well as steel industry management, only request that the worldwide steel industry playing field be leveled. With a level playing field we can out-produce and compete with anyone in the world. We have proven this time and time again.
I would also ask that you do what is necessary to clear the way for the consolidation of the domestic steel industry by supporting H.R.808. America's future depends on it. It's not too late - but time is of the essence.
Please act firmly and swiftly to stop the dumping of steel on our shores, and to save American jobs. Food for thought Mr. President - I have heard it mentioned that the imposition of tariffs would anger our steel-making trade partners such as Brazil, Japan and South Korea, among others. I ask you now sir, where was their concern about the American families being put out of work and on the street as a direct result of their illegal trade practices?
I compliment you on the steps you have already taken to remedy this situation and look forward to your continued support."
"Dear Mr President,
First I would like to congratulate and thank you for how you are reacting
and leading our country after the unfortunate attacks of September 11,
2001
on our Nation. It is quite incredible and still very hard to believe that
it even happened. Even so, behind your leadership and compassion, America
has truly unified into a much greater Nation. You have had many difficult
decisions to make in your short term as our President and I continue to be
amazed as to how you react in such a positive way. We fellow Americans
are
certainly 100% behind you.
With the entire Steel industry in such a pitiful state, we here at
Bethlehem
Steel have also had to make some very difficult decisions, the most
difficult being our recent filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on
October 15, 2001. As a very dedicated employee for almost 29 years, I have
experienced first-hand the pain of layoffs due to force reductions because
of poor business conditions. In my current position, I meet face-to-face
with home office affected employees within minutes after they have been
told
by their Manager or Supervisor that they are losing their job. I
experience
daily the agony, defeat and disappointment of employees after they are
told
their services are no longer needed. And many of these are people who do
their job well, but, because of our current situation, must be let go.
The current condition of Bethlehem Steel, as well as the entire Steel
industry, has not been the result of something happening just over night.
It has partly been the result of the many years of low-priced steel
imports
coming into our country. It's hard to believe that imports account for 20
to 25% of the annual steel consumption in this country! And the
conditions
have worsened because of the problem of our huge legacy healthcare and
pension costs for the many past employees who are now retired. Many of
these employees sacrificed many hours away from their families for 30 and
40
years making America what it is today. And many of these same people were
also those who made ships, tanks and ammunition right here in Bethlehem in
supporting our Nation during World War II. But they did it because they
loved America!
Mr President, I want to personally thank you and congratulate you for
initiating the 201 investigation concerning the dumping of steel into U.S.
markets. As you know, the U.S. International Trade Commission has
confirmed
that the high levels of these imports have seriously injured many American
steel companies, including us here at Bethlehem. It is obvious that the
countries that produce more steel than they can consume are just looking
for
places to dump it and now, as a result, many of the weaker steel companies
in our country are disappearing from the market. Those of us who are
still
here are here because of the improvements we have initiated over the
years.
The entire American steel industry has taken dramatic steps to reduce
capacity and modernize operations to become a high-quality, low cost and
efficient producer of steel. But now, we are even holding on by thin
threads! And if something isn't done now, we will end up to also be one
of
the casualties. To support our cause that we can continue to hold our jobs
and take care of our families, we need you and your administration to 1)
impose 40% tariffs on all imported steel into this country, and 2)
shutdown
the massive excess foreign capacity of steel. After working hard and
sacrificing much for almost 29 years here at Bethlehem, this whole entire
situation hurts tremendously! I can hardly believe that, because of what
has happened, I have to sit here and be so concerned about keeping my job
after so many years that I have given to Bethlehem. And not only that, I
also have to be concerned that I may not even get the opportunity someday
to
retire on my own or even collect a pension. This is a very sad situation.
I'm sure you will agree with me Mr President that our country needs a
solid,
reinforced steel industry. As you know, we and other steel companies are
currently talking with US Steel about the possibility of merging and
consolidating into one larger and stronger company. To make this become a
reality, we need your support by initiating these tariffs on imports and
by
providing government assistance with our legacy costs. Further
restructuring
in the U.S. industry will not be possible until the import problem and the
legacy costs are addressed.
Mr President, I trust that God will give you and your Administration the
guidance to give us the support we need.
May God continue to bless you and give you the strength, courage and
determination to continue to lead our Nation through these most difficult
times."
"Dear Honorable Commerce Secretary Donald E. Evans,
With the entire Steel industry in such a pitiful state, we here at
Bethlehem
Steel have had to make some very difficult decisions, the most difficult
being our recent filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on October 15,
2001. As a very dedicated employee for almost 29 years, I have experienced
first-hand the pain of layoffs due to force reductions because of poor
business conditions. In my current position, I meet face-to-face with
home
office affected employees within minutes after they have been told by
their
Manager or Supervisor that they are losing their job. I experience daily
the agony, defeat and disappointment of employees after they are told
their
services are no longer needed. And many of these are people who do their
job well, but, because of our current situation, must be let go.
The current condition of Bethlehem Steel, as well as the entire Steel
industry, has not been the result of something happening just over night.
It has partly been the result of the many years of low-priced steel
imports
coming into our country. It's hard to believe that imports account for 20
to 25% of the annual steel consumption in this country! And the
conditions
have worsened because of the problem of our huge legacy healthcare and
pension costs for the many past employees who are now retired. Many of
these employees sacrificed many hours away from their families for 30 and
40
years making America what it is today. And many of these same people were
also those who made ships, tanks and ammunition right here in Bethlehem in
supporting our Nation during World War II. But they did it because they
loved America!
As you know, the U.S. International Trade Commission has confirmed that
the
high levels of these imports have seriously injured many American steel
companies, including us here at Bethlehem. It is obvious that the
countries
that produce more steel than they can consume are just looking for places
to
dump it and now, as a result, many of the weaker steel companies in our
country are disappearing from the market. Those of us who are still here
are here because of the improvements we have initiated over the years.
The
entire American steel industry has taken dramatic steps to reduce capacity
and modernize operations to become a high-quality, low cost and efficient
producer of steel. But now, we are even holding on by thin threads! And
if
something isn't done now, we will end up to also be one of the casualties.
To support our cause that we can continue to hold our jobs and take care
of
our families, we need you and the President and his administration to 1)
impose 40% tariffs on all imported steel into this country, and 2)
shutdown
the massive excess foreign capacity of steel. After working hard and
sacrificing much for almost 29 years here at Bethlehem, this whole entire
situation hurts tremendously! I can hardly believe that, because of what
has happened, I have to sit here and be so concerned about keeping my job
after so many years that I have given to Bethlehem. And not only that, I
also have to be concerned that I may not even get the opportunity someday
to
retire on my own or even collect a pension. This is a very sad situation.
I'm sure you will agree with me Mr Evans that our country needs a solid,
reinforced steel industry. As you know, we and other steel companies are
currently talking with US Steel about the possibility of merging and
consolidating into one larger and stronger company. To make this become a
reality, we need your support by initiating these tariffs on imports and
by
providing government assistance with our legacy costs. Further
restructuring
in the U.S. industry will not be possible until the import problem and the
legacy costs are addressed.
Mr Evans, I trust that God will give you, the President and his
Administration the guidance to give us the support we need.
May God continue to bless you and the President and give both of you the
strength, courage and determination to continue to lead our Nation through
these most difficult times."
"Dear Mr. President
I would like first off to commend you for your fine leadership when this country needed a strong leader. After you were elected president you were faced with a country that has had its share of problems. From the economic problems to the national security issues the country's problems erupted shortly after you took office. I was proud to see you take these challenges and demonstrate the strong leadership skills that this country desperately needed. I seldom get involved in political issues let alone write an email to the president, however, you have shown me what leadership is all about. You serve as a role model for many Americans and in this day it is so difficult to find someone whom you would like to emulate.
We need this same type of leadership to help an ailing steel industry. I now it must be difficult to see many Americans struggling in this economic recession. I could go into detail of our struggles ,but, I'm sure you know all about them. I too believe in free trade, however, we need a level playing field in order to compete in this world economy. Legacy costs make it impossible to compete with companies whether foreign or domestic that have none of these costs. However, you can't turn your back on these costs those costs represent real people and families. Americans are living longer with this comes even more health care costs and pensions.
It is a fact that our industry has been hurt by imports as found by the ITC. Our industry is changing everyday employees are better educated when they enter this industry. We have some of the best employees eager to take on responsibility and make this industry profitable. Better educated employees and use of technology makes us second to none. It seems that there is a sense of pride in the steel industry that this is the core of America. We need your help to enforce fairness. I have read about your willingness to use diplomatic means to induce self imposed limits to foreign steel entering this country. It is a shame that these country's are not willing to follow your recommendations.
I hope that this letter helps convince you that we need your help now. Please remember it is so much more than just numbers. It is real people with real families and kids that suffer. It goes much deeper than just the steelworker it goes deep into the communities where the industry resides. Many more workers depend on this industry that work in support roles.
Thank you for your help."
"Dear Mr. President;
I am a retired employee from Bethlehem Steel. I have watched the erosion of the U.S.A. Steel industry due to cheap steel imports. I've seen employment reduced to a fraction of what it was just a few years ago. I have witnessed little or no federal help to stop the growing cancer of bankruptcies of a basic industry,that is the lifeblood of our country. Actions, not words ,are required to help a severely damaged industry to survive. Without immediate help on three fronts this industry will Fall and we ,as a nation, will be held hostage to the whims of foreign producers.
These three fronts are:
1) Higher tariffs on foreign steel, (to, at least, have a level playing field).
2) Health benefit funds be made available to offset industry legacy cost.
(Preventing retirees and their families from being without health benefits)
3) Enable Steel industry consolidation . (to improve efficiencies and capital investments)
Mr. President, action, not rhetoric, is required to save the future of a crucial industry, the jobs of its employees and the economic security of its retirees.
Thank you for your leadership of our country. May God bless you and your family."
"Dear President Bush;
This note is to plead for your consideration on our domestic steel crisis.
I am sure that you have the information about our dilemma and we steelworkers ask that you do what you can to help this steel industry survive. We can not imagine our country with out steel manufacturing yet we are on a fast path to that end.
Today, with 37 years service at Bethlehem Steel Corp, my family is worried that our health care and pension is but a dream. Today, after giving my best worklife years to making steel, the thought of retiring with security is an illusive ideal. The best minds are working on this issue and yet as I write this note, several hundred thousand steelworkers and many more related jobs are looking at doom and gloom for their future. The plan is to consolidate with government help. Please put your best effort to keep this industry alive and well. Our country needs domestic steel and our families need your consideration.
Thank you very much!"
"Mr. President,
I have been employed by Bethlehem Steel Corporation for over three decades. During that prosperous time for the United States, I have witnessed the employee ranks of our organization shrink from approximately 130,000 to currently 13,000. Many other firms within the industry have faced the same fate. Quite frankly, foreign imports are destroying the steel industry, jeopardizing the future security of our nation, and impacting our economy as a whole.
The U.S. International Trade Commision confirmed that high levels of imports have seriously injured the American steel industry. Now it is up to you to impose tariffs on those imports and level the playing field for all those that have been so negatively impacted. Twenty-seven steel companies, including Bethlehem Steel, have declared bankruptcy since 1998. You cannot allow the United States to become dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs.
Please act now."
"I work in the U.S. steel industry. I have worked at Bethlehem Steel for almost 29 years.I am very worried about losing my job.Bethlehem Steel is now in bankruptcy. LTV steel is now gone.The U.S.International Trade Commisson has confirmed that imported steel dumping is destroying the U.S.steel industry. The steel industry needs your help. U.S.industry and workers pay taxes and suport the economy.Unemployed people have to collect unemployment and burden the economy. Imported products are taking away people's jobs in this country.Jobless people can't buy products and support our economy.Imported products are causing a trade deficit with other countries. Please help stop the the imported steel dumping and save the U. S. steel industry and jobs before it is too late!"
"Honorable George W. Bush,
Please take strong action against the massive levels of cheap foreign
steel that are jeopardizing my and my fellow employee's future. Cheap foreign
imports have ruined the American steel market. Since 1998, 27 steel
companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Thousands of good paying jobs
and pensions for current and future retirees are seriously threatened. On
December 7, 2001, the U. S. International Trade Commission confirmed with
a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American
steel companies and workers. Five of the six commissioners recommended
tariffs to solve the import problem. However, Mr. President, you have
full discretion as to the final action. I congratulate you for initiating the
201 investigation. The time for further action is now. Specifically, 40%
tariffs must be imposed and massive excess foreign capacity must be
shutdown.
I am very worried about keeping my job and benefits. I am also worried
about the pension and health care benefits of many retirees and close
friends. If the American steel industry is destroyed by cheap imports, we
would be completely dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs.
This will endanger our national security and our whole economy. Please do what
is right for me, my fellow workers and retirees, and our country."
"Dear President Bush,
I have been employed at Bethlehem Steel for 37 years. I am only 57 years old and I'm worried. Foreign countries have ruined the American steel industry. They are dumping steel into our country under cost. If I lose my job now due to cheap imports, it will be 8 years before I can get Medicaid. What am I going to do until then..???? If my company goes under I will lose my pension. There are thousands more like me. I would like to thank you for initiating the 201 investigation.Now we need action not words.Tariffs must be imposed and foreign capacity lowered. foreign companies do not have the legacy costs American steel companies have. We're not competing on a level playing field.The deck is stacked in favor of cheap imports. I am more worried about foreign steel than terrorists..!!!!! Please help our national security by making a positive and strong response to steel dumping. Thank you for your serious consideration on this issue.!!!"
"I would first like to compliment you on your support for the military and
the values that we hold dear. Neither gets the media attention or respect
that they deserve. I'm proud to have a President that I can say I helped
put in the White House that shares those values.
I respect your time so I will keep my letter as short as possible. As a
retired Navy Chief, I have seen my fair share of problems and solutions. I
currently work for Bethlehem Steel as a Foreman. My responsibilities
include the improvement of operational practices, ensuring quality standards
are met, and training of personnel. Bethlehem Steel has made its fair share
of mistakes in the past, but I have seen marked improvement since I came to
work here after I retired two and a half years ago. Only so much can be
done to improve the practices of a company. As you know, since 1998, 27
steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Appropriately enough, on
December 7, 2001, the U. S. International Trade Commission confirmed with a
6 to 0 vote that cheap foreign imports have injured the American Steel
Market, American Steel Companies, and American Steel Workers.
Your decision to initiate the 201 investigation was a vital first step in
determining a course of action. I understand that five of the six
commissioners have recommended tariffs to solve the import problem.
Thousands of good paying jobs and pensions for current and future retirees
weigh in the balance of your decision. Even though my current livelihood
depends on the Steel Industry, for myself, I am not worried as much about my
job as I am for my fellow workers. The Navy provided me with the skills to
find other employment. My colleagues would not be so fortunate. Further
action by you is needed now. Relief from the legacy costs must found so
that US companies can consolidate and imports must be controlled to level
the playing field. To do anything less would end a way of life for a
significant segment of the American people, endanger our national security,
and increase our dependence on other countries for our basic needs.
Thank you for your leadership of our country. May God bless you and your
family."
"Mr. President,
I am a Steelworker with 25 years at Bethlehem Steel. I have always been proud to work in the steel industry.
I urge you to make a favorable decision regarding the trade relief for the US steel industry. Steel imports have come close to decimating our American steel industry, now with your help that can be changed.
By now we should all realize that foreign steelmakers are not interested in free trade or fair trade. If the situation was because of poor technology or low-skilled workers we would not have too much to say but that is simply absurd. We as Americans should be able to compete fairly.
We should not have to pay for foreign nations that have created this nightmare by overcapacity and subsidies.
Again I urge you to help out an industry that is vital for this nations economy."
"Dear Mr. President,
Without a doubt, defeating terrorism is our nation's top priority. Please continue, with unflinching resolve, to lead our nation in this endeavor.
When you have a break from the fight, I hope you will begin to address the economic devastation that has occurred in the American steel industry. Your decision to initiate the Section 201 investigation by the International Trade Commission (ITC) was an excellent first step, but the industry is now waiting for action on these findings. I have often heard you say on television that you are a results-oriented person. Respectfully, now is the time for talk on this issue to end and for results to begin.
I have a doctoral degree in metallurgical engineering. I joined the Bethlehem Steel Research Department in 1994, fresh out of graduate school, at a time when the research lab employed roughly 210 people. At the end of this month, we will be down to 95. Those of us remaining here are wondering whether we will still have a job at year's end. One thing is certain, if you fail to act in a meaningful way, we will be out of a job by then, if not sooner.
Attached is a recent Washington Post editorial by Senator John D. Rockefeller IV, where he eloquently argues for transitional support of the American Steel Industry. His article closely reflects my views on this subject.
I would like to thank you for reading my letter and considering my opinions. Best wishes to you and your family during this very difficult time in our nation's history."
"Dear Senator Santorum,
The U.S. steel industry is hemorrhaging, Bethlehem Steel included. It is time for the Congress to do something about it! I am one of the fortunate few in the Lehigh Valley still employed by Bethlehem Steel, and I would like to keep my job. It is clear, however, that if the federal government does not act soon to help the U.S. steel industry, I will be out of a job by year's end.
Attached is a recent Washington Post editorial by your colleague, Senator John D. Rockefeller IV. He eloquently argues for transitional support of the American Steel Industry. His article closely reflects my views on this subject.
Please use your influence to urge President Bush to act decisively on the findings of the International Trade Commission in the Section 201 case on steel imports. The Section 201 ruling, long overdue, would begin to address the reasons why 26 American steel companies have gone bankrupt since 1998. It is time for everyone to stop talking about the problem and start doing something about it.
I would like to thank you for reading my letter and considering my opinions. Best wishes to you and your family."
"Dear Congressman Toomey,
I received a copy of "A Report on the Steel Crisis" in the mail from you earlier this week. To be honest, until I read your report, I had the impression that you were absent from the fight to save the American steel industry which includes my employer, a company located in your district, Bethlehem Steel. I hope you are not a Johnny-come-lately on this issue, but even if you are, I am glad you are involved and will be watching closely as the November election draws near.
Please continue to use your influence to urge President Bush to act decisively on the findings of the International Trade Commission in the Section 201 case on steel imports. The Section 201 ruling, long overdue, would begin to address the reasons why 26 American steel companies have gone bankrupt since 1998. It is time for everyone in government to stop talking about the problem and start doing something about it. (Once this is all over, I hope that someone will correct this woefully slow process for remedying obvious import dumping situations).
Attached is a recent Washington Post editorial by Senator John D. Rockefeller IV. He eloquently argues for transitional support of the American Steel Industry. His article reflects my views on the subject.
Obviously, nothing will bring back the hundreds of thousands of Lehigh Valley jobs that have been lost over the years due to the slow demise of Bethlehem Steel. There are still some of us left, however, and we would appreciate your continued efforts.
I would like to thank you for reading my letter and considering my opinions. Best wishes to you and your family."
"The government's failure to enforce America's trade laws lies at the heart of the crisis plaguing our industry. Illegal dumping is responsible for much of the industry's downsizing and the resulting high cost of health insurance for the industry's retirees. Government's assumption of these costs is therefore fully justified and is essential to level the playing field in global steel trade. Every other nation has borne the cost of its industry's downsizing and there is no basis for our government not to. This issue must be addressed now before another Chapter 7 is implemented. "Fair Trade not Free Trade.""
"Dear President Bush:
I write to ask for you to take steps to help preserve the struggling steel industry in the United States. As you know, the International Trade Commission has found that the massive quantity of unfairly traded steel imports has substantially harmed the domestic industry. To help rectify this situation, I ask that you impose substantial tariffs (at least 40%) on these illegal imports and that your Administration take any necessary steps to assist with the consolidation of the American steel industry.
The future of a proud industry, the jobs of its employees, and the economic security of industry retirees are all at stake."
"Dear President Bush:
First, I would like to thank you for your leadership by initiating the 201 trade investigation and the ongoing fight for our freedom in the war on terrorism. Your trade action has been proven correct by the unanimous ITC vote of 6-0 that the steel industry has been severely harmed by unfairly traded steel. Second, I am asking that you impose tariff remedies of 40% to allow the steel industry the opportunity it deserves to restructure and continue to serve our country's future needs.
I am not writing to you out of self-interest because in all likelihood my job will be eliminated whether or not you help the steel industry. Rather, I strongly believe the steel industry has been a victim of our nation's foreign policy and the lack of enforcing existing trade laws. While there are compelling arguments for our current and past foreign policy decisions, the steel industry should not be asked to shoulder the burden of our nation's legitimate needs. Further, I believe it is not prudent, given the world we now live in, to allow our nation to become dependent on foreign sources for our steel needs.
I ask you to implement the tariffs and allow the funds to be used to for the industries legacy costs. Without your help about 100,000 Bethlehem Steel retirees and their dependents will be without health care benefits, adding to the 70,000 retirees resulting from LTV Steel's liquidation. These actions are necessary to facilitate consolidation, which will help to permanently address the fragmented industry caused by decades of unfairly traded steel.
Thank you for your leadership and you are in our prays as you guide our country through these difficult times."
"Dear President,
First I want to congratulate you on initiating the 201 investigation concerning the dumping of steel into United States markets. As you know, the U.S. International Trade Commission has confirmed that the high levels of imports have seriously injured American steel companies.
I have been watching the diplomatic exchanges about steel issues with great interest. It seems world wide there is excess steel capacity. The countries that produce more than they consume are looking for place s to dump steel.
Many of the weakest American steel companies have disappeared from the market. The remaining companies are still here because of the tremendous improvements that have been made over the years. Large amounts of capital dollars have been spent and the efficiencies are evident. But now, even the best of the American steel companies with the best, up-to-date, environmentally cleanest mills in the world are in tremendous trouble.
I graduated from college with a Metallurgical Engineering degree because I looked around and saw all of the steel being used. I figured that I could contribute to this basic building block of the economy. The hard work developing and installing increasingly efficient equipment to produce steel of undreamed of quality levels has been rewarding.
Now I see people that worked all of their life in a hard and tough industry loosing their retirement benefits, including medical coverage. In another 20 years I hope to enjoy retirement as my parents are. But something needs to be done now.
The American steel industry is proposing a grand plan. All of the major steel companies of the world are consolidating except the American companies. Help is needed as a two part plan. First enforce tariffs on the imports and second use the proceeds to fund retirement and medical plans for the retirees. In return, the American steel industry will consolidate, improve efficiencies, begin further capital investments and continue to be a major contributor to the American economy."
"I am asking you to take strong action against unfair cheap foreign
steel imports that affect not only the future of employees working in the
domestic steel industry, but the quality of life for hundreds of thousands of
pensioners who look to their previous employer for pensions and
healthcare benefits.
There is no easy solution to this problem. I support free trade but
that trade must be fair. Cheap foreign imports, subsidized in great
measure by foreign governments, have ruined the American steel market. I work
for the company that built the Golden Gate Bridge and hundreds of other
national landmark buildings. I work for the company that was the largest
supplier of armor plate, ordinance and ships for this country during both world
wars. I work for a proud company that declared bankruptcy in October 2001
because it can no longer compete with cheap foreign imports.
Please impose 40% tariffs on unfair foreign steel imports. Please
continue to work to reduce excess foreign steel capacity. Support the
domestic steel industry's efforts to consolidate so that the United
States is not dependent upon foreign steel producers. Help protect jobs and
pensions for Americans working in the domestic steel industry."
"Honorable Mr. Bush:
Cheap imported foreign steel has ruined the American steel industry. Since 1998, 27 steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Thousands of good paying jobs and pensions for current and future retirees are seriously threatened. The U.S. International Trade Commission confirmed with a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American steel companies and workers. Five of the six members recommended the implementation of tariffs to solve the problem.I congratulate the you for initiating the 201 trade investigation. However, the time for further action is now. Massive excess foreign capacity must be shutdown and 40% tariffs must be imposed.As an active employee of one of the companies forced into bankruptcy, I am very concerned about maintaining my job and current benefits. I have spent my entire working career at Bethlehem Steel, over 33 years, in an attempt to adequately provide for my family and myself during retirement. The achievement of that desire is in question, as my pension and retiree health care benefits could be significantly reduced or eliminated.If the American steel industry is destroyed by cheep imports, we would be completely dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs. This will endanger our national security and our whole economy.You must immediately impose 40% tariffs to give the industry that built America a chance to continue to be part of America's future."
"I am a steelworker who works for Bethlehem Steel. I have thirty-eight
(38) years of service with Bethlehem Steel. I am worried about losing my job and health care benefits. Every day I look at the papers and I see that another steel company bites the dust. At the present time there are about twenty-seven (27)
steel companies in bankruptcy. All of these company closings are due
primarily to cheap imported steel. I want to commend you for initiating the 201 investigations. Now that the investigations are complete, swiftness on your part to implement the 40 % tariffs is essential to the survival of the remaining steel
companies. If we allow our steel mills to go out of existence then we will
be totally dependent on foreign steel. This thought alone about endangering our National Security and our economy is appalling to me.
Foreign steelmakers are not interested in free trade or fair trade but in
one way trade. Countries like Russia, Brazil, South Korea and the Ukraine are having serious economic problems. The dramatic rise in steel exports to the United States correlates closely with their own economic mismanagement not to any economic competitiveness. Once again, I ask you to swiftly implement the
tariffs to safe guard our steel industry."
"Dear President Bush:
I am writing to you in regards to the pending decision on the steel industry.
First of all, I thank you very much for initiating the 201 investigation. Fortunately you saw the unjust and unfair trade practices that have been going on for a very long time. I congratulate you for taking a stand and caring for Americans that are fearful about their futures.
I myself am very much in fear of what could happen to this country if we see this continued trend in the American steel industry
There are thousands of retirees and current employees that are in jeopardy of losing their monetary means for supporting their selves and family.
I hope and pray you do impose the maximum allowable tariffs and quotas on foreign steel imports. There is so much at stake. We need the steel industry to stay strong, not just for our own economy to be healthy and to grow, but for other nations that depend on us to stay strong.
I understand that most republicans, like myself believe in capitalism and do not believe in necessarily interfering into companies "business". But when there is a trend of not just one company, but many in the same industry that have filed bankruptcy and many more on the verge of collapsing and you can easily trace back the reasons to something that has been unjust, but down right breaking the law, then if the government stepped in to help out, who with sound judgment would condemn it. I kind of look at you as the judge and we are not asking for mercy, but for justice.
President Bush, I know this is a tough decision because you are probably being pulled in so many directions, but I hope you stay strong and know that what ever you do, if you trust in God, he will give you the strength to carry out the right decision.
If you do indeed are able to read this letter. I like to also thank you for your incredible well handling of everything since September 11. I will continue to pray for you and your family."
"I am a supervisor for Bethlehem Steel. I'm working on 38 years of service. I'm hoping to work a few more years but am very concerned right now about American Steel companies and my company in particular.
In 1908, our founder Charles Schwab bet the ranch on a new technology for using a roughing mill to create wide flange beams from ingots using a process developed by Henry Grey. Not only was the experiment successful, but Bethlehem Steel went on to become the World class supplier of Structural shapes. The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco sticks out as one of our finest accomplishments.
We were so successful that Bethlehem built a new 48" Structural mill in Lackawanna NY in 1940. I was hired into the Lackawanna operations in 1964 when there were 22000 employees in the plant. Now there are only 14000 people in the entire corporation.In 1977 the headlines in the newspaper, which I will never forget were " Steel Imports Shutdown Lackawanna Mill ". I survived the cut and worked elsewhere until 1983 when I transferred to Bethlehem PA to work For Production Scheduling in Bethlehem's only remaining Structural Mills. Once again, in 1995 Bethlehem Steel ceased Steelmaking operations in Bethlehem Pa and in 1997 exited the Structural business all together forever.
I was fortunate enough to be given an opportunity to come home to Lackawanna NY and did so in 1997. Now I'm faced with yet another crisis which could jeopardize not only my career, but the careers of many other fine people that I work with.
You are going to be dealing the cards in the very near future. Imposing high tariffs on unfairly imported steel will allow Bethlehem Steel to once again compete on a level playing field, which we know we can do. Positive action will also help to save the few remaining integrated steel companies left in our great country.If for no other reason, it is vital to our National Defense that you take action as soon as possible. We Need You Help, Please!!"
The Honorable Robert B. Zoellick
U.S. Trade Representative
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
600 - 17 Street, N. W.
Washington, D.C. 20508
"We are sure that you are fully aware that cheap foreign imports have
ruined the American steel market. Since 1998, 27 steel companies have been
forced into bankruptcy. Thousands of good paying jobs and pensions for
current and future retirees are seriously threatened.
On December 7, 2001, the U.
S. International Trade Commission confirmed with a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American steel companies and workers.
Five of the six commissioners recommended tariffs to solve the import problem.
Remarks by President Bush on this matter to Steelworkers Picnic at Mon Valley Works U.S. Steel Group Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania August 26, 2001 3:05 P.M. EDT stated the following:
"If you're worried about the security of the country and you become
over-reliant upon foreign sources of steel, it can easily affect the
capacity of our military to be well supplied. Steel is an important job issue;
it's also an important national security issue. And that is why we took the actions we took in this administration.
Further urgent action is now necessary. Specifically:
- 40%
tariffs must be imposed;
- massive excess foreign capacity must be shutdown. The President has full discretion as to the final action and we are sure that his decision will weigh strongly upon your recommendation. As one of many US citizens interested in the future security of the
United States; the loss that may be inflicted upon our skilled labor force; and the diminished status of our national steel industry, disturbs us immensely. Therefore, we look to you and the President to take positive action on the two matters mentioned above that would immeasurably assist in remedying the concern of many of us citizens. As you well know, if the American steel industry is destroyed by cheap imports, we would be completely dependent on foreign producers to
supply our needs. This would endanger our national security and our whole economy.
We thank you for the support you have provided to date and we hope you will be instrumental in securing the safety and future of the US steel industry. We need your help."
"Dear President Bush,
I am retired from Bethlehem Steel Corporation and am deeply concerned about the long delay in imposing high tariffs on imported steel. The American steel industry has been severely damaged; many American steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy leaving many Americans unemployed and without benefits. Without the help of tariffs to level the playing field I fear that most of the impacted people will fall back on some form of government safety net for assistance. We are in a "no win" situation without high tariffs. If no action is taken than taxpayer monies will be needed to help those impacted and it is questionable if the resulting American steel industry will be able to fulfill our nations needs in an emergency. Certainly tariffs will result in some increased cost to American consumers of domestic steel; but tariffs will enable America to supply its own steel in time of need. Either way there is a cost to America - only tariffs offer the security of guaranteed American steel to meet our country's needs.
I urge you to implement high tariffs on imported steel as soon as possible."
"Dear Mr. President my name is �.. I am a steelworker at Bethlehem Steel in Burns Harbor, Chesterton Indiana. We are praying that you will help the mills because the mills are so important to the area and the country. If we lose our mills to overseas they will do as the oil countries do, When they want more money they too will cut production and we will be at their
mercy. The bridges and ships that need to be rebuilt or replaced they would have to do. Our people need our jobs to take care of our country. Sir we need to take care of our people and our country first. I know you have your hands full with the war I stand behind you or in front or beside you all the way. My son will graduate in 3 weeks then he hopes to head for boot camp then to medic training for the Army. Thank you for reading this your fellow American�."
"The country needs steel to survive and the jobs it provides. You need to do everything you can to help with the 201 sanctions and the relief of the legacy cost associated with the companies that helped us become the greatest nation in the world ever."
"Please let Mr. Bush know steelworkers need help. The money we make is the money we spend to help the economy to going. If we don't work we can't spend."
"Dear Mr. President Bush,
Cheap foreign imports have ruined the American steel market, have ruined Bethlehem Steel, and its employees....
....Cheap foreign imports are affecting people's jobs and families.
Bethlehem Steel, it's a big American asset, Bethlehem Steel has been directly involved in the construction and success of America, many of the cars in which people move were and are made with our steel, many of the rail-roads that move people and products were produced by Bethlehem, the same on many buildings and bridges. Bethlehem was a big part of America's success in the First and Second World Wars.
Cheap foreign imports have ruined one of Americas' biggest assets, your help in stopping these imports will not only help Bethlehem Steel, will definitely help America.
Thank you for your time."
"Mr. President,
I am concerned about the cheap foreign steel imports that I believe are jeopardizing the U.S. steel industry. My concerns are about corporate bankruptcy, the loss of jobs and the security of our country. I am concerned about the transformation of a once proud industry (that provided quality steel and a strong economy in the upper region of the
Eastern United States) into what has been referred to as the "Rust
Belt." I do not want this country to become dependent upon foreign
Steel products, for that will endanger our national security and
national security is especially important in light of recent attacks on the U.S.
Thank you for initiating the 201 investigation, but please don't stop
there, please capitalize on the ITC's position that we do indeed have a problem and take further action, Mr. President, to reduce foreign steel imports and eliminate the roadblocks to the recovery of our country's steel producing companies. Nearly 30 steel companies have succumbed to bankruptcy and that must stop. The industry needs you now!"
"Dear Senator Mikulski,
As a 38 yr employee for Beth Steel and have put in for retirement for Jan. 31, 2002 I am extremely concerned about what aid is going to be given to Beth Steel to help them get out of the bankruptcy situation they are now in. I have worked at Beth Steel for my entire working life and am worried about my pension benefits being cut if they should have to liquidate and more so about my health benefits being totally lost. I am willing to pay more toward my health benefits but can not afford to totally lose them.
My daughter is a 1998 graduate of the US Naval Academy and serving on the USS Harry Truman after completing the nuclear power program. I feel for the sake of our national defense that the steel industry must be saved to help preserve our military and our economic future.
You have worked hard over your years in the Senate to help the state of MD preserve industries please do your utmost to push through whatever it takes to save Beth Steel and protect the thousands of workers who are active employees and the retirees who have worked so hard for this company in the past."
"Dear Mr President,
You so appropriately told the steel industry in Pittsburgh Pa on August 26 2001 the following
"If you're worried about the security of the country and you become over-reliant upon foreign sources of steel, it can easily affect the capacity of our military to be well supplied. Steel is an important job issue; it's also an important national security issue. And that is why we took the actions we took in this administration."
Cheap foreign imports have ruined the American steel market. Since 1998, 27 steel companies have been forced into bankruptcy. Thousands of good paying jobs and pensions for current and future retirees are seriously threatened.
On December 7, 2001, the U. S. International Trade Commission confirmed with a 6 to 0 vote that high levels of imports have seriously injured American steel companies and workers. Five of the six commissioners recommended tariffs to solve the import problem. You Mr. President have full discretion as to the final action.
We thank you Mr. President for initiating the 201 investigation. And now Mr. President is the time for further action.
Specifically: 1. 40% tariffs must be imposed; 2. massive excess foreign capacity must be shutdown.
The steel employee, are very worried about keeping your job and benefits.
We retirees are worried about our pension and health care benefits.
If the American steel industry is destroyed by cheap imports, we would be completely dependent on foreign producers to supply our needs. This will endanger our national security and our whole economy.
Please Mr. President take the necessary action to protect our United States steel industry."
|
|
