Auto Care Association and AASA Urge President Trump to Push Efforts to Protect Auto Industry During COVID-19 Pandemic

BETHESDA, Md. – March 23, 2020 – The Auto Care Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) are urging the Trump administration to designate auto parts manufacturers, distributors, and repair shops as essential businesses to ensure that the vehicles transporting our public health professionals, first responders, and essential goods are operational. In addition, both organizations are encouraging the White House to enforce a “consistent national policy” to keep the auto care industry open.

The full letter reads:

"Dear Mr. President:

"The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and The Auto Care Association represents automotive aftermarket parts manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and service repair facilities in the United States. This industry employs over 4.7 million Americans nationwide and provides parts and services for the more than 280 million car and trucks on American roads. These vehicles enable our nation to function during the current COVID-19 pandemic. On behalf of these hard-working Americans employed in our industry, we would like to thank you for your strong leadership during our current national crisis.

"This industry and its workforce face an immediate crisis that needs your leadership. Aftermarket manufacturers, distributors, and repair facilities want to provide these essential services, but are facing inconsistent state emergency designations of essential personnel and services. These businesses were deemed critical in the March 19 MEMORANDUM ON IDENTIFICATION OF ESSENTIAL CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE WORKERS DURING COVID-19 RESPONSE issued by Director Christopher Krebs of the Department of Homeland Security.

"Since automotive and transportation repair businesses have thus far been designated as essential in all states issuing emergency guidelines, it is necessary to also designate the manufacturers and distributors of the parts used to service these establishments as essential so they can continue to manufacture and deliver parts to keep these essential businesses operating. Without a flow of these parts and components, emergency vehicles and essential health care and public safety workers could be left stranded and unable to travel to work.

"We urge the White House to initiate a consistent national policy to keep the entire auto care industry open which includes part manufacturers, retailers, distributors and service facilities of cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles. By allowing these businesses to stay open, these workers will provide a vital service and necessary revenue for communities throughout the country.

"AASA and The Auto Care Association strongly supports your emergency efforts to assist the country and our industry stands ready to help in any way.

Sincerely,

Paul McCarthy
President, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association

Bill Hanvey
President and CEO, Auto Care Association"