Talks with Congressional Leaders Focus on Policies that Impact Motor Vehicle Suppliers

Three members of Congress joined MEMA and business leadership Monday for high-level discussions about the risks and challenges created by a series of international trade policies that have impacted the motor vehicle supplier industry.

Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich), Haley Stevens (D-Mich), and Andy Levin (D-Mich) joined MEMA President and CEO Bill Long, OESA President and CEO Julie Fream, MERA President and CEO John Chalifoux, and a room full of industry business leaders to discuss the state of the supplier industry and how current and evolving issues, such as the USMCA, will affect it. The event was held at the Robert Bosch Plymouth Township Technical Center, in Plymouth, Mich.

Despite an “innovation renaissance” in Detroit and within the entire auto industry, legislators and participants alike heard a steady message during the discussion: the motor vehicle parts supplier industry is a global but fragile industry at its breaking point. In particular, the cumulative effect of imposed and threatened tariffs, and the uncertainty that those policies create, will discourage growth in investments, jobs, and innovation in the United States.

“This was an important opportunity for these dedicated members of Congress to hear straight from our members how decisions in Washington impact businesses across the country,” said MEMA President and CEO Bill Long. “It is our role to provide the opportunities for communication at this level, and we are grateful for all of those who came and shared their input today.”

Monday’s roundtable was part of an on-going grassroots project, the Supplier Advocacy Network, which MEMA launched earlier this month. The effort aims to connect suppliers with federal elected officials and facilitate meaningful discussions on how policy issues impact U.S.  businesses. These issues include the USMCA, tariffs, data access for the aftermarket, fuel economy rules, infrastructure, and workforce training.

MEMA members interested in participating in upcoming events or seeking more information about the Supplier Advocacy Network may contact Melanie Weiland at mailto:mweiland@mema.org or at 202-312-9242. Additionally, member companies are encouraged to attend town hall meetings hosted by congressional representatives. More information about the initiative can be found here.