Auto suppliers, grappling with UAW strike, urge Biden to provide financial assistance

WASHINGTON — U.S. auto supplier group on Tuesday urged President Joe Biden to provide federal assistance to help auto parts companies impacted by the ongoing UAW strike against the Detroit 3 automakers.

MEMA, which includes the association’s Original Equipment Suppliers and Aftermarket Suppliers groups, said in a letter urging Biden to "effectuate federal assistance to ensure the viability of this critical industry sector. Without federal assistance, the ability of the automotive industry to resume full manufacturing capacity is at risk."

The group wants the Biden administration to provide low-interest loans and consider loan forgiveness for struggling small suppliers. Biden was in Detroit Tuesday to show support for striking UAW workers.

The White House did not immediately comment and has previously declined to comment on whether it is considering programs to support auto suppliers.

The ongoing strikes have already forced some auto suppliers to cut production and furlough some workers. The letter cited "immediate concern" for smaller suppliers with revenue of less than $200 million. It urged the Biden administration to establish a Small Business Administration program or other agencies "to maintain workforce and operational capacity."