Pittsburgh Business Times reported that Pennsylvania Republican and House Steel Caucus chairman Mr Tim Murphy, along with Vice Chairman and Democrat Mr Pete Visclosky have introduced legislation that would require certain federal departments to use only steel and iron made in the US in projects.

Called American Steel First Act HR 1703 would require the departments of transportation, defense and homeland security to only use American made iron and steel in construction or other projects.

Mr Murphy said in a written statement that "At a time when America is set to lose its position as the global leaders in manufacturing to China no less taxpayer dollars should be used to buy products made in America by Americans."

The announcement also appears to be timed with the latest release of US unemployment figures, which for April sat at 9%.

Mr Murphy said that "Taxpayer dollars should not be sent overseas to buy inferior steel from China for rebuilding our bridges and protecting our troops. The American Steel First Act guarantees American Steel will be used for public projects and support American manufacturing jobs."

Mr Murphy and other Pennsylvania lawmakers have been pushing for the administration and Congress to enact currency reform legislation and enforce trade rules against China.

(Sourced from Pittsburgh Business Times)