BILLINGS – U.S. Sen. Steve Daines toured True North Steel on Friday morning and touted the impact of the Republican’s recent tax-cut plan for Montanans.
“This is an important employer in the Billings area. And the good news is, because of what’s going on right now in the economy, as we see the tax cuts and tax reforms, they suddenly have got more business than they know what to do with. That’s a good problem. They need to hire 35 more people,” Daines said.
True North Steel is a steel production company with eight locations. Two are in Montana. Of those 35 new job openings, seven will be available in the state.
During the tour, Daines was shown large steel beams that will eventually be used to build the bridge south of Laurel on Highway 212. He discussed details of the process with Dan Kadrmas, president of True North Steel, and production supervisor Jerry Michalsky.
“What we’re seeing right here are beams that will be used for the Laurel Bridge. So this is something we’ll drive over, we see it, and it’s made right here in Montana,” Daines said.
Daines examines steel beams that will be used to construct the Laurel Bridge (Q2 News photo)
“I talked to one employee, said this is some of the strongest demand they’ve seen in nearly 20 years. So this turnaround in the economy that we’re seeing in the present, leading with tax cuts, reducing regulation, it’s having an impact, putting more money in the pockets of hardworking Montanans. That’s a good thing,” Daines said.
According to Jack Leroy of True North Steel, the federal tax overhaul allows for immediate capital expenditure write-offs giving the company the opportunity to invest in new equipment which will increase productivity and efficiency.
Billings was just one stop on Daines’ 56-county tour through eastern Montana.
Below is a list of known times and locations Daines plans to visit.
Friday, Feb. 2
- Canary USA, 450 10th Ave. SE., Sidney, MT at 12:15 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 3
- Wagon Wheel Cafe, 211 Main St., Ekalaka, MT at 8 a.m.
- Fallon County Courthouse, 10 W. Fallon Ave., Baker, MT at 9:45 a.m.
Daines will also visit Dawson, McCone, Wibaux and Custer counties.