Ruppersberger Issues Statement on Restart of Operations at Sparrows Point Steel Plant

Recall of temporarily laid-off steel workers already underway

(Timonium, MD) – Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) said today he is pleased to learn that RG Steel will resume operations at its Sparrows Point plant and has begun to recall laid-off workers. Company officials have informed Congressman Ruppersberger that its “L” blast furnace has been restarted and is expected to reach normal operating rates within several days.

“I am thrilled that many of the dedicated men and women employed at Sparrows Point will soon return to work,” Congressman Ruppersberger said. “These workers will now be able to provide for their families, help strengthen our local and national economies and maintain the century-old tradition of steel production at Sparrows Point. This plant and these workers are part of Baltimore’s industrial identity and have a proven record of efficiency and effectiveness.”

As the representative of Sparrows Point, Congressman Ruppersberger advocated on behalf of laid-off workers at the plant, including communications with General Electric, which led a coordinated effort to finance the stock purchase sale that created RG Steel. He is also working with U.S. trade officials to develop relationships with raw materials producers overseas.

“I wholeheartedly believe the economy will rebound and the demand for steel will see an upswing,” Congressman Ruppersberger said. “In order for American steel to remain a viable industry, we must ensure the raw materials imported from other countries are obtained in a fair and reasonable manner.”