Huizenga Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Save Taxpayer Dollars, Create Jobs in Michigan

Press Release

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) announced the introduction of the Federal Vehicle Repair Cost Savings Act of 2015. This bipartisan legislation will save taxpayer dollars by encouraging federal agencies to use remanufactured vehicle components such as engines, transmissions, alternators, and starters. Remanufactured parts are a responsible and cost effective alternative to maintain the fleets of vehicles across the federal government.

"Not only does this bipartisan legislation reduce spending and save taxpayer dollars, it also opens the door to job creation right here in West Michigan," said Congressman Huizenga. "West Michigan is home to many high-quality parts manufacturers whose products can be found in vehicles across the globe. It only makes sense that the federal government utilize Michigan's incredibly skilled workforce and supply chain to ensure federal vehicles are maintained in a timely and cost effective manner."

U.S. Senator Gary Peters has also introduced companion legislation to The Federal Vehicle Repair Cost Savings Act of 2015 in the U.S. Senate. "Encouraging the federal government to use less expensive remanufactured auto parts when repairing their vehicles helps save taxpayers money and supports remanufacturing suppliers in Michigan and across the country," said Senator Peters. "I'm proud to have championed this bipartisan, commonsense legislation previously in the House and now in the Senate, and I want to thank Representatives Huizenga and Ashford for introducing this legislation in the House."

The U.S. Postal Service and Department of Interior both informed the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that they have reduced repair and maintenance costs by utilizing remanufactured vehicle components when appropriate. In addition to the cost savings, remanufacturing has environmental benefits as well. Remanufactured vehicle components do not need to go through the re-smelting process, which saves energy, conserves landfill space, and reduces air pollution. The raw materials are then recycled saving iron, aluminum, copper, and other resources.

Support for this bipartisan, bicameral legislation is already growing among Michigan manufacturers:

Detroit Diesel, the parent company of North America Fuel Systems Remanufacturing LLC, located in Kentwood, Michigan, praised Huizenga saying, "as the leader in remanufactured products for both on and off-highway power systems for over 40 years, Detroit Reman appreciates Representative Huizenga's efforts to support automotive remanufacturing within the federal vehicle fleet."

Valley Truck Parts, a leading remanufacturer of heavy duty driveline components based in Wyoming, Michigan, supports the bipartisan legislation saying it provides decision makers with an economically and environmentally sound alternative. "Remanufacturing is a key component to our economy today with benefits that economically and environmentally will have an impact for tomorrow. Adopting the process of remanufacturing within our government provides another responsible option for those making decisions," said Gary Troost, President of Valley Truck Parts.

Source