Harrisburg, PA − May 7, 2025 – State Sen. Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) today announced the introduction of landmark legislation designed to strengthen Pennsylvania’s steel industry, protect and create jobs, and reestablish the Commonwealth’s leadership in American manufacturing. The legislation, titled Fueling Opportunities for the Revitalization, Growth, and Efficiency of Steel (FORGES), aims to support domestic steel production and protect one of the state’s most critical industries from global economic pressures.
“For more than a century, Pennsylvania’s steel helped build this country’s cities, powered its military victories, and created the union jobs that built the American middle class,” said Senator Pisciottano. “It’s time we recommit to that legacy and invest in the future of steelmaking in our state.”
Steel production has long been a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s economic and cultural identity. In the early 20th century, Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania produced over half of the nation’s steel. That legacy remains, but in recent decades, foreign competition and outdated infrastructure have placed pressure on domestic producers and weakened the industry’s competitive edge.
The FORGES legislation aims to reverse that trend through a two-pronged strategy:
- Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Pennsylvania-Made Steel: This initiative will eliminate state sales tax on steel manufactured within Pennsylvania, encouraging businesses to buy local, high-quality steel and creating a competitive edge for in-state producers.
- FORGES Tax Credit Program: Designed to promote long-term investment, this program will offer tax credits for capital upgrades to steelmaking facilities. Additional incentives will be available for adopting state-of-the-art, energy-efficient technologies that modernize production and reduce environmental impact.
“This legislation is about more than economics, it is about our identity, our workforce, and our security,” said Pisciottano. “Steel remains a vital industrial asset and a key component of our national infrastructure and defense systems. We must do everything we can to keep this industry strong and growing.”
Senator Pisciottano emphasized his commitment to working alongside legislative colleagues, industry leaders, and labor unions to advance the FORGES legislation and craft a comprehensive economic package that positions Pennsylvania as a hub of modern steelmaking.
“Our communities built this nation from steel and sweat. Now, it’s time to build the future. I encourage my fellow lawmakers to join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to ensure that Pennsylvania steel continues to be a foundation for prosperity and progress for generations to come.”