NLMK seeks changes in the interpretation of the meaning of "Buy America"

Made in the USA. Depending on how this is interpreted, a number of US metallurgical companies may have big problems.

Following the "made in the USA" principle literally could shut down NLMK Pennsylvania, says Bob Miller, President and CEO of NLMK USA.

What appear to be small differences in terms can result in large reductions in factory workers or, conversely, an increase in jobs.

"The new rules are betting on the creation of American jobs," Miller said.

In 1982, the Federal Highway Administration passed the Buy America Act, which stipulates that steel used in federal funding projects must be smelted in the United States. This regulation became known as Buy American.

Unlike the Buy American Act of 1933, it also requires that materials used in federal projects be “manufactured” in the United States.

Buy America and Buy American are separate pieces of legislation with different requirements.

"Buy American" refers to all federal projects — with a few exceptions. These may include the construction of buildings or contracts from the Department of Defense.

But "Buy America" ​​is most often used in state and local projects that receive federal funds.

NLMK's Farrell plant buys steel slabs from Russia and rolls them into steel coils.

It turns out that according to the Buy American law, NLMK gets through, but not according to Buy America, ”says Miller.
Since 1982, two dozen complex plants have been closed, reducing slab production in the United States.

“We have brought back thousands of local steel jobs,” Miller said.

NLMK found itself drawn into current events related to the United States and world politics.

"The political feud with Russia has nothing to do with NLMK seeking to change US laws," Miller said.

The company employs 725 workers at Farrell and Sharon, with a further 338 at its Indiana plant.

Miller says that since one job in the steel industry equals seven jobs in related industries, the total number of jobs at stake is close to 8,000.

“And it's not about Russia,” he said. "It's about America, with Americans by law and Americans trying to secure a good life for themselves and feed their families."