JEFFERSON CITY -- Sen. John Loudon, R- West St. Louis County, has introduced legislation aimed at saving more than 2,500 jobs in the 7th Senatorial District. Senate Bill 620 would make changes to Missouri's tax laws that would provide incentives for the Ford Assembly Plant to remain in Hazelwood.

"The ramifications of closing the Hazelwood Ford plant would be felt throughout the St. Louis Metro area," said Sen. Loudon. "It's estimated that in all, 14,000 would be lost if that plant shuts down since numerous businesses are dependent on the plant and its employees."

The legislation would amend current laws related to the BUILD Program incentives, the Enterprise Zone Program, and the Community College New Jobs Training Program.

In addition, the Missouri Department of Economic Development has given preliminary approval to a new Enterprise Zone designation that includes the Ford plant site.

"This isn't solely a St. Louis issue," Sen. Loudon said. "All of Missouri will benefit by saving these jobs and the $169 million in annual salaries that strengthen our state's economy."

The Hazelwood Ford Plant opened in 1948, and currently assembles the Ford Explorer. In January 2002, the Ford Motor Company announced a restructuring plan that would close five plants throughout the county, including the one located in Hazelwood, over the next several years.

In March of that year, Gov. Bob Holden appointed a 22-member task force made up of community leaders, politicians and business people to develop a plan to encourage Ford to keep the Hazelwood plant open.

Many of the recommendations of this task force are included in SB 620.

"This legislation will give us the tools and the flexibility to work with Ford and make the difference in saving these jobs," said Sen. Loudon. "I truly believe saving these jobs is crucial to the recovery of Missouri's economy."