Leo W. Gerard, International President of the United Steelworkers (USW), released the following statement to mark the first anniversary of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), praising the stimulus bill for creating, sustaining and saving good jobs.

“The United Steelworkers applauds the findings of the Obama Administration report on the first year under the Recovery Act that show it responded to the economic crisis that idled the jobs of industrial workers all across America. The job-creating impact of investments in infrastructure and the ‘Buy America’ government procurement provisions have made a big difference in working family economics during uncertain times.

“When tax-payer monies are involved, U.S. made products such as steel, glass, rubber and other manufactured inputs should be given preference for infrastructure projects for the construction of roads, bridges, public  buildings and water systems ... more