'It was authorized in last year's energy bill. We are just seeking appropriations,' she said. 'This is a direct loan program. The money will be paid back.' The Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association represents 700 passenger car and commercial vehicle suppliers. Vehicle parts suppliers employ 783,100 workers in the United States and contribute to 4.5 million domestic jobs, MEMA says. Detroit's Big Three chief executives met with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders on Wednesday. Pelosi has said she wants to pass the auto loans before Congress adjourns next week, possibly in a massive bill to fund ongoing operations of the government. The governors of Michigan and nine other states also sent Congress a letter on Wednesday urging funding of the loans. 'This is an issue of paramount importance for our economy,' said Nate Bailey, press secretary to U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Hills. 'It's important for members of Congress to hear how the auto industry impacts jobs in their districts. We are very confident the auto loans will be passed next week and signed into law.' Staff writer David Shepardson contributed to this article. You can reach Deb Price at [email protected] or (202) 662-8736.