Letter to Hon. Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House, Hon. Chuck Schumer, Senate Majority Leader, Hon. Kevin McCarthy, House Minority Leader, and Hon. Mitch McConnell, Senate Minority Leader - Gov. Henry McMaster Leads Republican Governors in Fight to Protect Auto Workers, Manufacturers

Letter

Dear Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Schumer, Leader McCarthy, and Leader McConnell,

As Governors representing states that are home to world-class automobile manufacturing and distribution, we write to support the automakers that have invested billions of dollars and employ thousands of American workers. The employees of these automakers proudly build and distribute cutting-edge vehicles that have been a source of significant economic activity, which in turn prompts investment by ancillary businesses and automotive suppliers that results in even more American jobs.

We are deeply concerned that Congress is considering legislation that gives union labor a competitive advantage over non-union labor in the electric vehicle market. We oppose this legislation that seeks to exclusively increase tax credits for electric vehicles built by U.S. factories where employees have a collective bargaining agreement. One proposal would provide as much as $4,500 more in tax credits for the purchase of vehicles produced by union labor. We cannot support any proposal that creates a discriminatory environment in our states by punishing autoworkers and car companies because the workers in their plants chose not to unionize.

This legislation is not about supporting emerging technology but is instead a punitive attempt to side with labor unions at the cost of both American workers and consumers. By putting certain vehicles at a cost disadvantage, this legislation works against our states, undercuts our residents, and negatively impacts the U.S. economy. Congress should not enact proposals that favor vehicles produced by one workforce over another, particularly when doing so dramatically limits consumer choice and undermines larger carbon emission reduction goals.

Accordingly, we respectfully request that you avoid picking winners and losers and only consider proposals that support the overall market for suppliers, sales, and other aspects of the distribution chain. We urge you to consider the investment and employment created by ALL automakers, non-union shops included, as you evaluate proposals. Our states are working to create a stable environment for American automotive manufacturing, and we ask for your partnership, not punishment, in this endeavor.

Sincerely,