Earth Equity News

U.S. Automakers Reportedly Now Seeking an Additional $50 Billion in Federal Loans. By John Hughes, BloombergNews, November 7, 2008. "GM, Ford and Chrysler, strapped for cash as sales plunge, are seeking $50 billion in federal loans to help them weather the worst auto market in 25 years, a person familiar with the matter said. The package would be $25 billion for health-care spending and $25 billion for general liquidity that could be delivered in different ways, including short-term borrowing from the Federal Reserve, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the plan isn't public. In return, the companies would be willing to take steps such as granting stock warrants, the person said. The automakers should receive 'additional help' from President George W. Bush's administration, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said after meeting with their chief executive officers in Washington on Thursday. Congress approved a $25 billion loan program in September to help build fuel-efficient vehicles."