Economy
May 30, 2017
Texas Legislators Approve Buy American Requirements
Written by Sandy Williams
Texas legislators have approved a “Buy American” bill that will require large state projects to purchase domestic iron and steel. Senate Bill 1289 requires use of American steel if the cost doesn’t exceed 20 percent of foreign price offerings. Foreign steel may also be used if American suppliers cannot provide the necessary material or if there is a compelling state interest. Passage of the bill expands the state’s compliance with the federal “Buy America” provisions already in effect.
Water infrastructure projects are excluded from the new bill until May 2019 so that a cost comparison study can be completed.
