Congressman Peter's Statement On The Future Of General Motors

Press Release

Congressman Gary Peters, whose Michigan congressional district is home to three GM plants scheduled to cease production, Chrysler World Headquarters and more auto suppliers than any district in the country, issued the following statement today following GM's bankruptcy filing and reports of planned plant closures:

"I am hopeful that General Motors can emerge from bankruptcy quickly as a stronger and more competitive company. A shorter proceeding is possible because GM, the auto task force, workers, a majority of bondholders and others have worked to ensure critical agreements were reached out of court.

"The restructuring that GM must undergo to emerge as a vibrant company will unfortunately cause many people in Oakland County and across the country to lose their jobs. Laid-off individuals in our communities will need enhanced unemployment benefits and retraining programs. The administration's plan for impacted workers and communities must include direct support for these laid off workers to help them transition into new jobs. We also need a plan to help businesses and communities cope with lost revenue and investments in new advanced manufacturing to transform Michigan's economy over the long-term.

"GM's Orion plant and the Pontiac stamping plant are excellent facilities uniquely situated to build GM's new small, fuel efficient car. The plants are close in proximity to key auto suppliers and advanced technology component manufacturing, and Michigan is home to the best workers and engineers in the world. I am disappointed these plants are slated to be put on standby, but I will do everything I can to convince General Motors that bringing these plants back on line to build their new small car is a great business decision."

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