Cleveland-Cliffs announced the temporary idling of its Dearborn Works steel plant in Detroit, laying off 600 workers, coinciding with Hyundai's $6 billion investment in a modern steel mill in Louisiana. This move underscores a transition in the steel industry towards modern, direct-reduced iron steelmaking and away from coal-based facilities. Hyundai's new plant, utilizing direct reduced iron (DRI) and electric arc furnace (EAF) technology, aims to achieve near-zero carbon emissions by potentially incorporating green hydrogen and renewable electricity. Conversely, Cleveland-Cliffs' decision reflects the uncertain future of traditional U.S. steel mills. The Michigan steel industry faces pressure to upgrade to cleaner production methods to avoid losing manufacturing jobs and falling behind competitors like Hyundai. The push for fossil-free steel is emphasized for its potential to significantly reduce emissions and drive a more competitive, sustainable future. Recommendations include providing public support to stay competitive and promoting investments in green steel technologies. The significance of automakers in driving demand for coal-based steel is highlighted, with calls for increased procurement of fossil-free steel to meet climate goals. Overall, the article emphasizes the importance of transitioning to fossil-free steelmaking to secure a cleaner, healthier, and thriving future for steel-producing states like Michigan.