President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, Pat Gallagher, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the concerns raised now that Nippon Steel has purchased U.S. Steel. He also talked about efforts to ensure steel production stays domestic and improve voting maps in Ohio.
As a retired member of the United Steelworkers, Gallagher discussed concerns raised following the purchase of US Steel by Nippon Steel last month. The deal happened without the knowledge of the USW, who had given their negotiation rights to Cleveland Cliffs. There are several concerns that Gallagher outlined, some of the most important being national security, anti-dumping cases and improving the steel industry in the U.S.
Looking ahead, ensuring steel remains domestically produced and not imported from outside the country is a top priority. Gallagher said several questions have been raised to Nippon Steel about this, but they haven’t provided a plan for the future. He added that there is a potential for US Steel to become a shell company. Until Nippon provides answers, Gallagher believes that the purchase will be disastrous for the future of the steel industry in America.
As President of the North Coast Labor Federation, Gallagher is working with other Ohio local Labor Federations to get legislation on the ballot that would improve voting maps. He talked about the efforts to solicit signatures to get the proposed legislation on the November ballot. Gallagher is confident they can get the legislation on the ballot and discussed how to educate the public before they vote.
Play the episode above to hear more from Gallagher and the North Coast Area Labor Federation.