A proposal in the Illinois House that would require all state vehicles to be manufactured in North America sounds patriotic, but some groups say it would hurt Illinois businesses.
The Department of Transportation and the Illinois' Manufacturer's Association are among those who opposed the measure. Randy Nehrtof the Illinois Chamber of Commerce says it would hurt businesses that manufacture parts for vehicles made in Mexico.
"The bill actually has the real potential to harm Illinois businesses. It also strains relationships with Illinois' trading partner in Mexico."
The proposal says North-American made vehicles, but it specifically leaves out Mexico. Nehrt says Illinois businesses do about 6.4 billion dollars in exports with Mexico every year.
The state could still buy and lease vehicles made in Canada. Illinois unions support the measure. It passed committee and is now waiting a vote in the House.