Passage of House Bill 975

Weirton, WV 26062—The Independent Steelworkers Union applauded the actions of the House of Representatives this afternoon following the passage of House Bill 975 which gives relief to the domestic steel industry.

According to Independent Steelworkers Union President Mark Glyptis, the overwhelming vote in the House of Representatives was a clear indication that the Congress was prepared to "Stand Up For Steel" and "Stand Up For America". "We are very pleased with the vote because this is a major victory in the fight to stop illegal steel imports," Glyptis declared.

But Glyptis said the fight will now intensify, and the Union will focus its attention on the Senate where similar legislation is now pending.

"We have seen our strength in the House. We hope to see similar strength in the Senate, and we hope that the Senate will also "Stand Up For Steel" and "Stand Up For American workers," Glyptis said. While he was declaring a national victory this afternoon, Glyptis also warned the residents of the Ohio Valley to be prepared to take the fight to Washington, D.C. if necessary. Today was a national victory, but we cannot let our guard down. We still have nearly 800 steelworkers laid off at Weirton Steel because of illegal imports, and we must continue this fight and return our Union brothers and sisters back to work," Glyptis stated.

The Independent Steelworkers Union leadership began meeting immediately this afternoon to plan strategy for the lobbying efforts in the Senate.

Glyptis and officials of the Independent Steelworkers Union, along with a number of laid off employees, were in Washington, D.C. today to witness the historic vote in the House.

Glyptis also gave full credit to Ohio Congressman Bob Ney for his efforts in getting the bill to a vote in the House and securing its passage.