Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt has joined forces with Senator Todd Young and a bipartisan group of 14 Senate colleagues to introduce the Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act. This legislative proposal aims to enhance U.S. trade remedy laws, ensuring they remain effective against unfair trade practices.

Senator Britt emphasized the need for action, stating, "Time and time again, the Chinese Communist Party has shown that they’re not willing to play by the rules that govern international commerce. Congress must act to mitigate the abuse of regulatory loopholes that harm hardworking American families, Main Street small businesses, entrepreneurs, and critical industries." She affirmed her commitment to protecting American workers and strengthening national security.

The Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act builds on previous legislation from 2015 by providing additional tools to the Department of Commerce to address circumvention issues. The bill seeks to counteract anti-free market practices by the Chinese Communist Party and safeguard American jobs.

Senator Young highlighted the importance of this initiative: "Our bill will protect American jobs and combat China’s unfair trade practices. China has distorted the free market by dumping undervalued products and subsidizing industries, actions designed to harm American businesses and workers. This legislation will help level the playing field to ensure the United States can outcompete the Chinese Communist Party."

In related developments, Senator Britt recently supported Howard Lutnick's confirmation as President Trump's Commerce Secretary. She expressed confidence in his ability to prioritize economic needs: "Hardworking Americans deserve a U.S. Secretary of Commerce who puts their economic needs first—fighting unfair trade practices and supporting families across Alabama and America."

The steel industry is notably affected by unfair trade cases, with Senator Britt advocating for Alabama's steel workers and manufacturing sector. ArcelorMittal's recent announcement of a $1.2 billion investment in an Alabama steel manufacturing facility was welcomed by Britt as a positive step towards reinforcing America's manufacturing leadership.