A diverse group of about 150 people, including state Rep. Mike Veon, D-Beaver Falls, met today in Weirton, W.Va., to discuss ways to stave off a collapse of one of the region s most significant industries. Domestic production slows when foreign steel is imported and sold at prices that fall well below the actual cost of production. More bankruptcies and job losses are expected in the coming years, and the impact could be severe for towns in the region unless remedies are put into place. The group drafted a resolution that will be sent to Congress to ask for federal laws to restrict foreign trade. This is a problem that crosses state borders, so the solutions require input from the leaders of the bordering states, said Veon, who represents the 14 th Legislative District.
Few states share a common steel heritage like Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio.
And few states are being hit as hard by lost steel jobs and company bankruptcies. Nearly 23,000 steelworkers have lost their jobs and at least 18 steel companies have filed for bankruptcy in a little more than three years. Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Corp. Nearly 2 million Americans are directly or indirectly employed by the steel industry, or receive pensions and health care from current and former steel companies. About 35,000 Pennsylvanians are steelworkers, and thousands more work in support roles for the industry. About 100,000 Pennsylvania retirees pensions could be affected by steel industry problems.