The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) and its members support H.R.3401, a bill that strengthens domestic tire retreading. U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Emilia Strong Sykes (D-OH) reintroduced the bill to offer tax credits to fleets that buy American-made retreaded tires. The bill promotes U.S. manufacturing, job growth, and sustainable tire solutions.
“Approximately 15 million tires are retreaded annually in the U.S, including nearly 44% of commercial truck tires in the U.S. and Canada. By providing tax credits to fleet purchasers who buy American-made retreaded commercial tires, we have a critical opportunity to support domestic manufacturing and strengthen our national economy,” said Anne Forristall Luke, president and CEO of USTMA. “This legislation is about more than just tires. It’s about investing in American workers and promoting a sustainable and innovative manufacturing sector.”
Retreading Creates Jobs and Strengthens the Circular Economy
Tire retreading plays a key role in American remanufacturing. It employs over 51,000 workers and supports more than 268,000 jobs across the tire industry. Small businesses, many with 10 to 60 employees, produce nearly all American-made retreaded tires.
The number of U.S. retreading facilities dropped from over 3,000 in 1982 to just 500 today. Increased imports of foreign tires, many designed not to be retreaded, accelerated this decline. About 65% of these foreign tires don’t qualify for retreading, which weakens U.S. recycling programs and undercuts local producers.
H.R.3401 gives fleets a financial incentive to choose domestic retreads. The bill aims to bring back high-quality manufacturing jobs, improve supply chain stability, and support local economies.
Retreaded Tires Deliver Environmental and Economic Gains
Retreading helps the tire industry reduce waste and support a circular economy. Compared to new tires, retreads use fewer resources and cut emissions. According to USTMA, they:
- Save 15 gallons of oil and 90 pounds of material per tire;
- Cut U.S. and Canadian oil use by 215 million gallons annually;
- Reduce CO₂ emissions by 24%;
- Cut water use by 19%;
- Lower air pollution by 21%;
- Keep 1.4 billion pounds of waste out of landfills.
“The retreading industry has long been a leader in sustainable manufacturing. However, the sharp decline in domestic retreading facilities highlights the need for policy solutions that support this critical sector,” Luke added. “We applaud Reps. LaHood and Sykes for their leadership in reintroducing this bill and ensuring that American-made retreaded tires remain a key pillar of our economy and environment.”
