Michigan State Representative Luke Meerman said on Feb. 24, 2026, that state lawmakers have proposed legislation to prohibit the sale of vehicles in Michigan that are designed, developed or manufactured by foreign entities of concern. The proposal aims to protect the local economy and address national security risks.
The issue is significant for Michigan, where the automotive industry employs around 113,900 workers and remains a key contributor to regional GDP according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The sector supports related jobs across Ottawa and Monroe counties, with continued growth projected in light vehicle production as reported by recent economic outlooks from the Michigan House Fiscal Agency.
According to Meerman in an opinion piece co-authored with fellow legislator Bruck for The Detroit News, "The Chinese Communist government has made no secret of its strategy: heavily subsidize domestic automakers, flood global markets with artificially cheap vehicles and use economic dependence as leverage... When Canada embraces Chinese vehicles, it doesn’t just undercut American and Michigan-based manufacturers — it creates a backdoor risk for the entire North American market... Modern cars are more than just transport vehicles. They are sophisticated data-collecting machines capable of tracking location, capturing images and transmitting information back to servers subject to foreign control... Michigan is the flashpoint for soft power influence and potential espionage, demonstrated by the efforts of battery manufacturers CATL and Gotion to establish operations in our state." According to their article, House Bill 4400 was introduced as a protective measure against these risks.
As reported by SNE Research via CNEV Post, CATL holds a 39.2% share of the global electric vehicle battery market in 2025. China controls 69% of installations worldwide and dominates LFP battery production and processed lithium supply chains. This concentration increases U.S. reliance on Chinese suppliers for critical EV components.
The U.S. Department of Defense has designated CATL as a Chinese military company due to its ties with the People's Liberation Army. This designation prohibits federal contracts with CATL and raises concerns about partnerships such as Ford's planned battery plant in Michigan receiving federal subsidies under tax credit programs.
Meerman is a fifth-generation dairy farmer who previously served as Polkton Township trustee and Ottawa County Farm Bureau vice president according to his official biography. His co-author Bruck is a decorated U.S. Army veteran who owns franchise businesses; both represent Republican districts in Michigan's House.
