Alabama Legislature advances legislation requiring that American iron be used in public works projects

Last week, the Alabama State Legislature passed legislation requiring that American iron be used in all Alabama public works projects.

House Bill 157 (HB157) is sponsored by State Representative David Faulkner.

According to the synopsis, “Under existing law, when a public works contract requires the use of steel, the contractor performing the contract is required to use steel produced within the United States. This bill would provide that when a public works contract requires the use of iron, the contractor performing the contract would be required to use iron produced within the United States.”

The Senate Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development Committee voted unanimously to give the bill a favorable report Wednesday. Sen. Garlan Gudger chairs the committee.

Rep. Faulkner told the Committee that HB157 requires that for public works projects. “You use American iron and steel. Federal law is already that way,” Faulkner said.

Sen. Josh Carnley asked, “Are we putting anybody at a disadvantage?”

“No, we are not,” Faulkner answered. “We have several iron manufacturers in Alabama.”

Faulkner explained that Alabama law already requires the use of American steel. This legislation simply adds iron to it so that state law matches federal law.

HB157 passed the Senate on a 32 to 0 vote. It has already passed in the House, so it now goes to Governor Kay Ivey for her consideration.

As of Tuesday, 765 bills have been introduced in this legislative session.

Tuesday was Day 19 of the 2023 Alabama Regular Legislative Session.

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