On September 21, the Green Machines Tour joined the UAW, Apollo Alliance, NWF and other labor and environmental groups to challenge Michigan legislators to embrace an innovative plan to help the state's industries create thousands of good jobs in advanced automotive and new energy technologies. The group outlined specific proposals they believe will invigorate Michigan's economy, protect Michigan's environment, and help the nation end its dependence on foreign oil.

The Michigan Apollo Alliance issued the challenge at a press conference in Lansing, MI and also held a briefing for legislators at the state capitol. At the press conference Jerome Ringo, President of the national Apollo Alliance and Chair of the National Wildlife Federation Board, praised the efforts of the Michigan Apollo Alliance and held out high hopes for the state. "Michigan has taken some important steps toward investing in the energy and automotive technologies of the future, but state leaders can't stop now. Retaining Michigan's automotive leadership and clean energy momentum, demands that we pursue new policies to ensure greater investment in order to set Michigan apart from its competitors."

As part of the challenge, the group sent a letter to Michigan legislators and the governor asking them to embrace a bold plan to:

• Promote and incentivize a new generation of advanced automotive and fuel efficient technologies built here in Michigan;
• Invest further in homegrown energy sources, such as Michigan-grown biofuels and renewable energy;
• Develop a Michigan alternative energy manufacturing sector by promoting a comprehensive package of R&D, workforce training, commercialization & manufacturing initiatives;
• Establish a major energy efficiency effort focused on reducing public and private building energy use, increasing industrial efficiency and expanding the use and manufacture of energy efficient appliances.

According to the Alliance, these measures will create short and long term jobs, save citizens and businesses money, and keep Michigan's energy dollars at home.

The event was covered by local television and radio and by newspapers across the state.

• Download letter to Michigan Legislators
• Labor/Environmental Alliance Says Advanced Technology Key to Auto Industry Future - Press Release
• Michigan Labor Unions and Environmentalists Unite For Energy Independence - Press Release

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