Statement from Anne Forristall Luke, President and CEO, U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association on the Senate’s Passage of H.R.748 Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act March 26, 2020

“The members of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) applaud the U.S. Senate’s unprecedented work to pass the largest economic relief package in U.S. history. We respectfully urge the U.S. House of Representatives and President Trump to expeditiously ensure this becomes law to provide a much-needed financial boost to American workers, American businesses and our nation’s struggling economy.

We are encouraged that Congress is paying attention to the specific issues that USTMA identified as critical to our employees and businesses, including prioritizing a refundable employee-retention tax credit and the deferment of employer-paid payroll taxes.

We are also encouraged that the Department of Homeland Security, and state and local governments, including our nation’s governors recognize the essential nature of our industry.

Ensuring the health and well-being of the nearly 100,000 dedicated individuals working to manufacture tires in the U.S. is of paramount concern to our member companies. USTMA and its members stand ready to work with Congress, the administration, and state and local governments to address the many tough issues facing our country during these challenging times.”