Reps. Miller, Clack, Constan, Elsenheimer, Farrah, Hammon, Johnson, Robert Jones, LeBlanc, Mayes, Opsommer, Sak, Sheltrown, Stahl, Tobocman, Vagnozzi, Bauer, Bieda, Dean, Espinoza, Gillard, Hopgood, Rick Jones, Kathleen Law, Marleau, Alma Smith, Spade, Condino, Gonzales, Lahti, Leland and Nofs offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 31.

            A resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to establish a "Marshall Plan" for the United States automotive industry.

            Whereas, At a time when our country's auto sector is facing untold, and often unfair, challenges, it is in our national interest to establish a "Marshall Plan," similar to the plan instituted to jump-start the decimated post-WWII European economy, to help accelerate the domestic production of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles. Providing assistance to the automobile manufacturers and auto parts suppliers to dramatically accelerate the domestic production of alternative fuel and advanced technology (hybrid, clean diesel, and fuel cell) vehicles and their key components is of paramount importance to our entire economy; and

            Whereas, Only through action of the federal government could a comprehensive plan be developed to help retain and create tens of thousands of jobs for American workers, and assure that American companies are producing the cars and trucks of the future right here in the United States. Providing the opportunity for the automotive sector to retool and expand existing facilities, and helping to make sure that there is a level playing field among all automotive companies with respect to corporate taxes and health care costs, will produce tremendous benefits for years to come; and

            Whereas, Indeed, a Marshall Plan would have any number of direct and indirect benefits. It would reduce our dependence on foreign oil, thereby reducing our dangerous reliance on foreign oil and increasing our energy security. It would also improve the environment by reducing global warming emissions. The plan would further generate additional revenue for federal, state, and local governments because of the jobs that would be created for American workers. Moreover, it would benefit consumers through lower costs for flex fuel and advanced technology vehicles, and lower overall fuel costs. Finally, the plan would help corporate profitability and help ensure that workers and retirees receive the health care and retirement benefits they have earned; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we hereby memorialize the Congress of the United States to establish a "Marshall Plan" for the United States automotive industry; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.