LANSING – The House Transportation Committee today unanimously passed a resolution introduced by State Representative Gino H. Polidori (D-Dearborn) that calls on the U.S. Congress to ensure that increased fuel-efficiency requirements for vehicles do not threaten workers' jobs and consumer choice. House Resolution 165 now heads to the Michigan House of Representatives for a full vote.
"Congress must be careful not to pass extreme legislation that could threaten our workers' jobs and the economic benefits the auto industry brings to Michigan and to our nation," Polidori said. "There is a realistic and responsible way to increase fuel economy – one that protects jobs and consumer choice while achieving significant gains in efficiency. Our lawmakers in Washington must find that careful balance."
Congress is working on creating new Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for the U.S. auto industry to improve fuel efficiency and fight climate change. HR 2927, which was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in June, sets tough fuel economy standards. The plan is unique in that it would set different standards for cars and trucks. It also gives automakers more time to implement changes, which will help ease the burden on auto companies.
"A healthy auto industry is essential to a healthy economy here in Michigan," Polidori said. "By working with the auto companies, we can increase standards while protecting jobs for our workers."