WASHINGTON (May 16, 2019) – The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) applauds the recent formation of the bipartisan Congressional Tire Caucus, co-chaired by U.S. Representatives Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) and Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.), two Members of Congress representing states with significant tire manufacturing footprints.

The Caucus plans to facilitate an exchange of ideas and information regarding the interests of the U.S. tire manufacturing industry and highlight its economic impact as well as sustainability, safety and future mobility.

“Tire manufacturing is a vibrant and growing sector of America’s manufacturing industry,” Rep. Wilson stated. “South Carolina is home to more tire manufacturing facilities than any other state. The industry has a total annual economic impact of $148.4 billion nationally, and more than $10.2 billion in South Carolina. I hope to emphasize the importance of this industry to thousands of South Carolinians and millions of Americans who depend on its success.”

The Congressional Tire Caucus was formed just in time to highlight the observance of National Tire Safety Week, held on May 20-27 this year, an annual opportunity to remind consumers to check their tires’ condition and focus on tire safety as we head into the summer travel season. 

“Most people don’t think twice about their tires, but the tire industry supports more than 33,000 Tennessee jobs and directly contributes nearly $3.5 billion to our state each year. The Congressional Tire Caucus will help keep families safe and our economy strong.” said Tire Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Cooper.

The formation also comes on the heels of USTMA’s first-ever sustainability report that highlighted the industry’s focus on safety through innovation and environmental stewardship.

“As Congress prepares to consider several initiatives important to our industry, we are fortunate to have such esteemed distinguished co-chairs helping raise awareness for significant industry issues and legislative priorities. I’m eager to continue strengthening our competitiveness and furthering understanding of our manufacturers’ contributions to the economy and motorist safety with the bipartisan support of the Congressional Tire Caucus,” said Anne Forristall Luke, president and CEO of USTMA.