U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) has introduced the Retreaded Truck Tire Jobs, Supply Chain Security and Sustainability Act to support Ohio’s tire producers and workers. This legislation provides a tax credit for retreading tyres to lower costs and enhance competition against Chinese imports.
Supporting Retreading: a Critical Industry
“This tax credit will make American retreaded tyres more affordable, allowing Ohio companies to compete better with cheap imports from China,” stated Brown. “More vehicles will use American-made retreaded tyres, supporting local jobs.”
Retreading is a critical industry employing over 51,000 workers in the U.S. However, the number of retreading facilities has dropped from over 3,000 in 1982 to about 500 in 2023 due to the influx of low-quality imported tyres unsuitable for retreading.
The new act has received support from industry leaders and labour organisations. During a news conference, John Rizzo of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance and Johnny McIntosh from Goodyear discussed the benefits of the legislation. Rizzo highlighted its positive impact on the national economy and local communities, while McIntosh emphasised its potential to lower operating costs for commercial fleets.
Paolo Ferrari, CEO of Bridgestone Americas, supported the bill for its job creation, sustainability goals, and strengthening of the domestic supply chain. Dave Prentice of the Tri-County Regional Labor Council also praised the legislation, noting its potential to revive the retreading industry.
Senator Brown’s legislation aims to revitalise the retreading industry, boost the local economy, and promote sustainability.
