Central Louisiana News

Several key figures from former President Trump's cabinet have endorsed Senator Bill Cassidy's proposed Foreign Pollution Fee Act. The act aims to create a fair playing field between U.S. and Chinese manufacturers. Cassidy's initiative, developed with Senator Lindsey Graham, seeks to bolster competitiveness of U.S. industries.

During recent confirmation hearings, Trump administration nominees including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and others, voiced their support for the act. They believe the proposal complements Trump's trade objectives with China.

Industry leaders have also expressed approval. Philip K. Bell of the Steel Manufacturers Association sees it as beneficial: "A strong border measure will allow American steel producers to benefit from the fact that they are global leaders in emissions efficiency." Kevin Dempsey of the American Iron and Steel Institute stressed its necessity: "Steel made in the United States is the cleanest in the world. Senator Cassidy has rightly determined that legislation is needed to hold foreign polluters accountable for their dirtier products."

The proposal received backing from the Portland Cement Association and the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America's Mike Carr, who remarked: "Any successful, long-term strategy to reshore the solar value chain must prioritize taking these steps to safeguard the domestic solar industry."

Endorsing this direction, Will Brown from The Aluminum Association highlighted the need for incentives supporting cleaner aluminum production. Industry data shows American-made Oil Country Tubular Goods produce less carbon than their Chinese counterparts, as noted by Luca Zanotti of the United States OCTG Manufacturers Association.

Cassidy's plan, stemming from a 2023 proposal, seeks to address unfair trade practices and pollution disparities. The development reflects U.S. strategic goals discussed at the 2024 Louisiana Energy Security Summit, continuing Cassidy's advocacy through various platforms.