LANSING – House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Township) today is leaving for Washington, D.C., where he will urge our nation's leaders to take action to support the U.S. auto industry, auto suppliers and the millions of workers who depend on them for their livelihoods. Dillon will be joined in the nation's capital by Senate Minority Leader Mike Prusi (D-Ishpeming), Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop (R-Rochester) and House Minority Leader Kevin Elsenheimer (R-Kewadin).
"Revitalizing the auto industry is one of our best hopes for bringing America out of its current recession and protecting the middle class," Dillon said. "The increased focus on creating cleaner auto technologies and better national fuel economy standards presents many opportunities for renewal in the auto industry. With millions of families relying on the automakers and auto suppliers for their livelihoods, it's imperative that we support and protect this important industry."
Dillon, Prusi, Bishop and Elsenheimer will meet with members of President Obama's administration, members of Michigan's Congressional Delegation, and other key leaders involved in the stimulus plan while in Washington, D.C., this week.
"The auto industry is a vital economic engine that Michigan and the nation cannot afford to lose," Dillon said. "The automotive industry has led the way in cutting-edge research and development for over a century, and it can continue to do so in 21st century. Extending bridge loans will help ensure that the auto industry can weather this financial storm and offer our workers the support they have earned through years of hard work."