Senator Phillips: State Legislature Passes Bill to Ensure State Road & Bridge Projects Use American-Made Steel & Iron

     Senator Elaine Phillips (R-Manhasset) announced that the Senate and Assembly have passed legislation that would ensure American-made steel and iron products are used on state road and bridge projects.   Governor Cuomo announced his intention to sign the bill when it reaches his desk. 

    “This law will ensure that we support our own workers and businesses that are the backbone of our economy.  New York State spends billions of dollars each year on road and bridge projects.  Reinvesting those tax dollars here will help create jobs and grow our economy, all while ensuring we use safe, high-quality products on our roads and bridges.  I’m pleased we were able to work in a bipartisan manner to deliver for our workforce, our businesses and our economy,” said Senator Phillips. 

    The “New York Buy American Act” will require the use of American-made iron and steel for road or bridge projects directed by the state Department of Transportation, Office of General Services, SUNY Construction Fund, Dormitory Authority of New York State, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Bridge Authority and Thruway Authority.   The law will apply to contracts that are $1 million or more. 

    The measure will also include the creation of a workgroup to study the expansion of manufactured products to include American-made concrete, cement, and aluminum; the cost to capital plans; and the impact on quality and maintenance.

    The law will take effect on April 1, 2018 and will pertain to contracts that are executed after that date.