Duval Times

Last month, American autoworkers secured significant victories in negotiations with the "Big Three" automakers. These victories were crucial as automakers have historically threatened to move manufacturing jobs overseas to cut costs, despite benefiting from the American tax code.

To address this issue, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and his colleagues have introduced the Putting American Autoworkers First Act. This bill aims to prevent automakers from receiving federal tax credits, grants, and loans if they offshore auto manufacturing from the United States. Senator Rubio explained the motivation behind the legislation, stating, "This legislation would create a strong incentive for automakers to keep jobs right here in America and allow workers to share in the profits that they helped create."

Senators J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) are original cosponsors of the bill, emphasizing the bipartisan effort to protect American auto jobs.

The Putting American Autoworkers First Act includes provisions that would prohibit automakers benefiting from 12 different federal programs from offshoring production, manufacturing, or final assembly of any of their products for a period of 10 years. Noncompliant automakers would face penalties. The covered programs include various incentives and grants such as the New Clean Vehicle Credit (30D), Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit (45W), and the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentive Program.

This bill is a continuation of Senator Rubio's commitment to bringing industrial jobs back to America. Earlier this year, he released a labor report proposing policies to revitalize domestic manufacturing and create thriving communities across the nation.

The introduction of the Putting American Autoworkers First Act demonstrates a concerted effort to protect the interests of American autoworkers and ensure the stability of the domestic auto industry. By providing strong incentives for automakers to keep jobs in the United States, this legislation aims to safeguard the livelihoods of American workers and promote economic growth.

In a time when the global market is highly competitive, it is essential to prioritize the interests of American workers and ensure the continued success of the auto industry. The Putting American Autoworkers First Act provides a path forward to achieve these goals and strengthen the American economy.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.rubio.senate.gov/rubio-colleagues-introduce-bill-protecting-american-auto-jobs/