Globally, and here at home, the auto sector is moving rapidly towards electric vehicles (EVs). This shift holds great potential for auto and manufacturing workers, the economy and the climate, but its impacts on workers and manufacturing communities depend on policy action Congress takes now. A new report from the Economic Policy Institute will demonstrate the powerful impact that proactive, pro-worker manufacturing policies and investments will have on ensuring robust, onshored electric vehicle manufacturing and supply chain that uplifts workers and brings good jobs back to the US. Action now can save and create jobs, reverse disinvestment in manufacturing communities and combat economic inequality.

On Wednesday, September 22, a virtual panel of experts discussed America’s transition to clean vehicles, and how strong policy can ensure that the economic and jobs benefits accrue to workers and communities here in the U.S.

AGENDA

Welcome:
Jason Walsh: Executive Director, BlueGreen Alliance

Opening Remarks:
Brian Deese: Director, National Economic Council
Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)
Rep. Dan Kildee (D-MI-05)

Panel Discussion: What’s needed to Lead in the Next Generation of Auto Manufacturing & Jobs
Josh Bivens: Director of Research, Economic Policy Institute
Josh Nassar: Legislative Director, United Auto Workers
Janelle Jones: Chief Economist, U.S. Department of Labor
Moderated By Zoe Lipman: Director of Manufacturing & Advanced Transportation, BlueGreen Alliance

Remarks:
Heather Boushey: Member, White House Council
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI12)

Panel Discussion: Opportunities for Workers and Communities Nationwide
Román Partida-López: Transportation Equity Legal Counsel, The Greenlining Institute
Luke Tonachel: Director of Clean Vehicles & Fuels, Natural Resources Defense Council
Moderated by Brad Markell: Executive Director, AFL-CIO Industrial Union Council