Auto workers optimistic
over auto bill

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - White House and congressional leaders are continuing work on an auto loan bill. The bill would provide emergency loans to General Motors and Chrysler. Ford officials say their company should be able to make it through 2009 without federal help.

Workers at the GM fabricating plant in downtown Indianapolis have been paying close attention to what's happening in the nation's capital. They said the multi-billion dollar emergency loan to General Motors and Chrysler is necessary for the companies to stay afloat.

GM worker Jose Anaya has been with the company for 30 years. He said, "I think it's good for the economy. I think it's going to help the country overall."

Still, workers are remaining cautiously optimistic about government financial help. They said with the economy in a slump, you just never know.

"It's good for now. We'll see what the future holds. Worldwide, the news doesn't seem to be getting any better," said Anaya.

"It's not going to be fixed overnight. It's going to help the workers and retirees. But there are other sectors of the economy that need to change. People need money. When they get it, they will spend it," said UAW Local 23 President James Kendall.

The UAW is hoping people will spend money on American-made vehicles, especially since GM and Chrysler will have to pay back the $15 billion loan.