State Representative Mike Armanini (R-Clearfield/Elk) expressed concern about Pennsylvania missing out on significant economic investments, after Aclara Resources Inc. announced plans to build the nation’s first heavy rare earth separation facility in Louisiana. The project represents a $277 million investment and is expected to create 140 direct jobs along with nearly 500 indirect jobs in the state. Additionally, Orion Engineers and Constructors will move its headquarters to Baton Rouge, which involves a $5 million investment and could generate over 100 high-paying positions.
“These are the kinds of projects that could and should be coming to Pennsylvania. We have the workforce, the natural resources and the heritage of innovation. But we’re losing ground because our current leadership in Harrisburg is not creating the conditions businesses need to thrive. Our government should be working together to attract new and retain existing businesses in the Commonwealth by prioritizing good economic policy.
“We need to be focused on building a business climate that welcomes investment by reducing burdensome regulations, modernizing our infrastructure and unleashing our energy potential. Instead, we’re seeing policies that make it harder for businesses to grow here, and easier for them to look elsewhere.
“This isn’t just about jobs. It’s about the future of our Commonwealth. If we cannot attract projects like these, we lose opportunities for our young people to stay, work and raise families in the towns they grew up in.
“We have a rich cultural and industrial heritage that should be part of our economic strategy. But that requires leadership that’s willing to roll up its sleeves and work across the aisle to get things done. We can’t afford to keep missing these chances. It’s time to put politics aside and get serious about making Pennsylvania a place where businesses want to invest and families want to stay,” Armanini said.
