Toledo, Ohio - Stellantis, the automaker, has disclosed its plans to potentially lay off up to 1200 employees at the Toledo Assembly Complex. The move comes as the company adjusts its operating pattern in order to meet emissions regulations, particularly those set by California.

According to a spokesperson from the company, the change in operating pattern is necessary to comply with California emissions regulations and manage the sales of vehicles produced at the Toledo Assembly Complex. This adjustment will involve transitioning to a "traditional" two-shift operating pattern instead of the previous extended work hours. It is projected that around 1100 to 1200 workers could be affected by these changes at the plant.

The Toledo Assembly Complex is responsible for producing the Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler models, both of which utilize traditional internal combustion engines. As a result of the shift in operations, both assembly lines will operate on two 8-hour shifts, and workers will no longer be able to exceed a 40-hour work week.

Stellantis has decided to issue a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice as a precautionary measure, even though it may not ultimately apply to these layoffs. The WARN notice will provide affected employees with advance notice, with potential job losses taking effect as early as February 5.

To comply with California regulations that mandate all new cars sold in 2035 and beyond be zero-emissions vehicles, the company has taken steps to petition California officials for exceptions to these rules.

The United Automobile Workers (UAW) Local 12 President has not yet provided a comment on the matter. However, the UAW leadership communicated to its members that the WARN Act outlines the company's intention to lay off up to 1000 employees starting from February 5, 2024, or within two weeks after that date. The UAW ensures that its members will be kept informed as new information becomes available.

Toledo's mayor, Wade Kapszukiewicz, expressed the city's commitment to assisting affected workers. In a statement, he mentioned ongoing discussions with Stellantis and UAW, where the possibility of changes at the Jeep plant was anticipated. The mayor emphasized the importance of Jeep as a significant employer contributing to Toledo's economy and mentioned plans to collaborate with various partners to provide support through unspecified assistance programs.

In addition to the Toledo Assembly Complex, Stellantis indicated that the Detroit Assembly Complex will also undergo changes in its operating pattern. However, the specifics of how these changes may impact positions at that location have not been disclosed at this time.

Stellantis' decision to potentially lay off up to 1200 workers at the Toledo Assembly Complex reflects the industry's continuous efforts to meet evolving emissions regulations. As the automotive landscape shifts towards greener technologies, companies face the challenge of adapting their operations, which may result in significant workforce adjustments.