Politics & Government

Ruppersberger Responds to News of RG Steel Layoffs

Congressman is "deeply troubled" by the imminent shutdown of steel operations at the Sparrows Point plant.

Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) Friday issued the following statement on job losses announced by Sparrows Point steel plant owner RG Steel:

“I am deeply troubled by the potential impact this news will have on the dedicated men and women at the Sparrows Point plant. I have been proud to represent the workers who have helped shape Baltimore’s industrial identity for more than 15 years, first at the county level and now at the federal level.

For more than a century, the plant has produced steel that has literally built our country. My father worked at this plant when it was Bethlehem Steel and, time and time again, the men and women of Sparrows Point have rallied under the most frustrating of circumstances. I am hopeful that efforts to sell the plant will be successful. I will closely monitor the situation so that all of its workers receive the answers and assistance they deserve.

Find out what's happening in Essex-Middle Riverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The continued success of the Sparrows Point steelmaking operation is not only important to Maryland, but the national economy. In Congress, I have been working with U.S. trade officials to develop relationships with raw materials producers overseas. Unfair export restraints on important raw materials are putting American manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage. This week’s news is one example of why we must continue to fight for even playing ground in markets around the world.”

Find out what's happening in Essex-Middle Riverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Essex-Middle River