United Steelworkers of America Local 1375 members have ratified a new labor agreement with WCI Steel, Inc.

The contract, which was approved Thursday, will become effective once WCI emerges from bankruptcy as a reorganized company. A confirmation hearing on competing reorganization plans is scheduled to begin July 21 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Akron. The USWA is strongly supporting the debtor's plan, which is sponsored by WCI's ultimate parent, The Renco Group, Inc.

Patrick G. Tatom, WCI's President and CEO, said the labor contract is key to WCI's reorganization plan because it provides the framework for implementing new work systems that will enable WCI to vigorously compete in the global steel market. "We are pleased that our USWA members approved this innovative agreement, which provides hourly employees with job security and greater participation in all areas of our business," Tatom said.

"We have distinguished ourselves in the marketplace by producing custom products, serving niche markets and providing superior customer service," Tatom added. "This new contract will give us further opportunity to improve our costs, quality and customer satisfaction."

The newly approved contract will expire Nov. 1, 2008.

WCI is an integrated steelmaker producing more than 185 grades of custom and commodity flat-rolled steel at its Warren, Ohio, facility. WCI products are used by steel service centers, convertors and the automotive and construction markets. The company has approximately 1,650 employees. WCI filed a voluntary petition for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code on Sept. 16, 2003.