WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) released the following statement today following the announcement that Boeing would consolidate 787 Dreamliner assembly in South Carolina, ending production in Everett, Washington.

“With an unparalleled workforce, Washington state remains the best place in the country for the aviation and aerospace industry to do business. Boeing’s decision to move its production of the 787 Dreamliner out of Washington state is deeply disappointing and illustrates the shortsighted approach of many large corporations.

“It is unfortunate that Boeing has not engaged in a meaningful way with elected officials at the state and federal level to maintain their presence in Washington state, and that more notice was not given about the timeframe and scale of the consolidation effort. Boeing’s employees and their families deserve better, and there must be a fair plan laid out for workers impacted by this decision.

“The Puget Sound region and Washington state will remain an unmatched place for the aviation and aerospace industry with workers who maintain the highest industry standards of production. Our strong education system, skilled workforce, and robust supply chain are not going anywhere. I will fight to support the workers impacted by this decision, ensure other Puget Sound workers in the industry are able to keep their jobs, and further grow the aerospace and aviation industry in the Pacific Northwest.”

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