What's At Stake?

Save Autoworker Jobs!

Millions of jobs that depend on the auto industry.

According to the Center for Automotive Research, letting the "Big Three" automakers fail would cost 2.5-3.0 million jobs, which would be a disaster for the economy. Not only autoworkers would be harmed, but other workers and small businesses that depend on the industry.

Congress has indicated openness to providing a bridge loan to the automakers that will prevent bankruptcy and allow retooling for the future. Such aid will likely have conditions attached to ensure that it's not simply a give-away to executives and shareholders, like the flawed Wall Street bailout.

From Nov. 24 through Dec. 7, most lawmakers are back in their home states or districts, meeting with constituents. The following week, December 7-13, groups across the country are mobilizing for a "People’s Bailout" (http://www.jwj.org/bailout) including an economic stimulus package, restoration of the middle class through collective bargaining, ending foreclosures and other measures to address the economic crisis.

The American auto industry has been central to building America’s middle class. Preventing its collapse, and investing in its reform, should be an important part of a "People's Bailout" and broader economic recovery program.

Congress needs to hear from all of us – now.

Without immediate government aid, one or more automakers could fail, costing millions of jobs, putting thousands of small and medium-sized businesses at risk, threatening health and pension benefits for retirees, and causing enormous damage to our economy.

For background from the Economic Policy Institute, see: http://www.epi.org/content.cfm/pm134

For United Auto Workers talking points see here: http://www.uaw.org/auto/pdf/112108talkpoints.pdf

You can help by taking immediate action:

Click here to send a letter to Congress.

Or call toll-free at 877-331-1223

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