Measure Supporting Beneficial Use of Steel Slag Sent to Governor

Legislation introduced by Senator Elder Vogel supporting the beneficial use of steel slag — a byproduct of the steelmaking process — received final legislative approval this week and was sent to the Governor for enactment into law.

Steel slag’s environmentally friendly properties make it very useful for a number of uses. PENNDOT has used slag in road construction projects for more than 80 years because it is reliable, versatile, and cost effective.

However, current state law dictates that slag is considered to be “waste.” Therefore, mills and slag processors must seek special classification from the state Department of Environmental Protection to sell the product.

Senator Vogel’s bill, Senate Bill 497, removes requirements for “waste” classification of steel slag for piles produced after January 1, 2007 that have not been commingled with residual or hazardous waste. This legislation would help to remove the “waste” stigma associated with steel slag and promote its environmental and cost-savings benefits over other materials.

“I am pleased to see this legislation move forward to the Governor for his approval,” Senator Vogel said. “This bill will help to support our slag manufacturers, encourage environmentally friendly practices, and could generate significant cost savings for taxpayers by encouraging the reuse of steel slag in Pennsylvania’s road projects.”

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