WASHINGTON — Some of the world’s largest auto suppliers told Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer they are ready to restart production and raised alarm about new delays to resuming operations.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, most suppliers halted operations in late March as automakers closed their factories. Six weeks later, uncertainty about when Michigan will allow the resumption of operations is causing delays throughout the U.S. auto industry.
The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association and Original Equipment Suppliers Association told Whitmer in a letter late on Thursday that “delays in re-opening facilities would increase liquidity risk for suppliers and jeopardize long-term capital investment and employment for Michigan.”
The group asked Whitmer “to provide clear authority for automotive suppliers to restart their operations in Michigan at least five days before OEM production begins.”
Auto suppliers in Michigan employ about 125,000 people and are generally paid 45 days…
