CHICAGO — The proposed acquisition of Metals USA Holdings Corp. by Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. moved one step closer to completion after the deal was granted early termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, according to a Federal Trade Commission document.

This means the government has determined the transaction won’t adversely affect U.S. commerce under antitrust laws.

Los Angeles-based Reliance has offered to purchase Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based Metals USA for about $1.2 billion (amm.com, Feb. 6). The transaction is expected to close during the second quarter, the two parties have said.