March 13, 2007 — The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) praised the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 1126, which reauthorizes the Metals Initiative.

H.R. 1126, a public-private cost-sharing research partnership was formed to develop technologies in the metals industries. Originally authorized by the 100th Congress, these research projects aim to strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. industry, improve the environment and increase energy efficiency.

“This bill is a direct contributor to maintaining a strong U.S. manufacturing sector by delivering numerous new technologies to the factory floor,” said AISI President and CEO Andrew G. Sharkey III. The American Iron and Steel Institute, with its member companies, has maintained a partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy under the Metals Initiative, and its predecessor, the Steel Initiative, since 1987.

Passage of H.R. 1126 re-authorizes $12 million per year for five years to fund advanced metals research. Provisions in the bill create a “pay back” feature to repay the taxpayers investment in any technology developed that is put into use in industry or the marketplace. In addition, the bill prioritizes the development of technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“The constant influx of new technology is vital to competitiveness in any sector,” said Sharkey. “Our partnership with DOE allows us to conduct much more high-risk research than we could on our own, and we obtain results faster. The Metals Initiative programs have become so effective,” said Sharkey, “that our success rate is outstanding—we’ve developed new ironmaking technologies, key process sensors and models and advanced, high-strength steels for lighter and safer cars.”

Rep. Daniel Lipinski (D-IL) introduced H.R. 1126, also known as the “Steel and Aluminum Energy Efficiency and Technology Competitiveness Act,” in February with nine other Steel Caucus Member co-sponsors, including Vice-Chairman Rep. Phil English (R-PA), Rep. Todd Akin (R-MO), Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA), Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-NC), Rep. Jerry Costello (D-IL), Rep. Vernon Ehlers (R-MI), Rep. Tim Holden (D-PA), Rep. Betty Sutton (D-OH) and Rep. Charlie Wilson (D-OH).

In addition to supporting steel-related research such as CO2 reduction technologies, H.R. 1126 also maintains and advances U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.

“The steel industry, and other metals industries, are important parts of our national economy and they must remain innovative in order to stay competitive in the increasingly global economy,” said Rep. Daniel Lipinski (D-IL). “Now more than ever it is vital to ensure that these industries are fully prepared to confront the challenges they face at home and abroad. This bill will protect valuable jobs and vital businesses, while developing environmentally-friendly technologies to prepare for the challenges of tomorrow.”

AISI serves as the voice of the North American steel industry in the public policy arena and advances the case for steel in the marketplace as the preferred material of choice. AISI also plays a lead role in the development and application of new steels and steelmaking technology.

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