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(Des Moines, IA) -- Iowa state lawmakers are meeting in a special, legislative session today to consider approving more than a billion dollars in state incentives for a steel plant to be constructed in Southeast Iowa.
Senate Minority Leader Janice Weiner says Democrats are excited about the prospect of the project but have reservations.
"Why is this being rushed before regular Iowans whose tax dollars will fly out the door to a foreign corporation have a chance to weigh in? Why are we leaving them out of this discussion and tripping over ourselves to move this idea forward?, " Weiner asked on the Senate floor Friday morning. "It does nothing to to make Iowans' housing more affordable, it doesn't lower prescription drug prices, it doesn't reopen local clinics, it doesn't clean up our water, it doesn't address our cancer epidemic, it doesn't make child care easier to find or afford, " Weiner said.
India-based Mesabi Metallics wants to build a $15 billion dollar steel plant in Lee County, creating 6,000 new jobs during the build out and 1,750 permanent jobs.
The plan was announced by President Trump Monday from the Oval Office. He said the new steel plant will pump $95 billion into the national economy.
House Speaker Pat Grassley says the project is a game-changer for the state.
“This historic $15 billion investment is a game-changer for Iowa that validates our work to lower taxes, cut regulations, and build a competitive economy. By bringing thousands of high-paying, family-sustaining jobs and domestic steel production to our state, this project diversifies Iowa’s economic future while strengthening America’s supply chains. The House Republicans have been conducting thorough due diligence on any state proposals to ensure we protect our taxpayers while maximizing this incredible opportunity for working families," Grassley said in a statement.
The jobs created by the plant would pay an average of nearly $49 an hour. The steel plant is expected to begin production in 2030.