LANSING — Sen. Paul Wojno (D-Warren) today issued the following statement regarding the plan announced by General Motors (GM) to produce surgical masks at their Warren plant that will help provide needed supplies to medical workers confronting the coronavirus pandemic.
“The hardworking men and women at our nation’s best automotive companies have always answered the call when their country needs them — be it an international war or, today, a global pandemic. I’m as proud as ever of the UAW, General Motors, suppliers and everyone else who is stepping up to get us through this difficult time.
“The decision to reopen the General Motors plant in Warren to serve those on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic is nothing short of admirable, and I thank these workers for their creativity, willingness to help, and their service.”
The Warren plant will begin making FDA-approved Level 1 surgical masks at a rate of 50,000 per day and could double to 100,000 per day, with production levels determined by the availability of materials to make the masks. Machinery arrived at the plant this morning and production is expected to begin next week.
An employee-led initiative, this plan was created and approved by GM in about 48 hours and involves the company’s traditional supply base, as well as new partnerships specific to the medical device industry. GM will collaborate with government agencies and suppliers to distribute the masks.
The plant was previously closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sen. Wojno represents the 9th Senate District in Macomb County, which includes the cities of Center Line, Eastpointe, Fraser, Roseville and Warren, as well as Clinton Township.
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