(Washington, D.C.)–Upon learning that Bank of America plans to cut approximately 13,000 jobs through its merger with Fleet Bank, Congressman Jim Langevin today urged Bank of America executives to retain all of the 4,000 positions located in Rhode Island.  Last week, Langevin and the other members of the Rhode Island Congressional Delegation met with Bank of America executives to discuss the merger.

In a letter to Mr. Ken Lewis, Chairman of the Board of Bank of America, Langevin stated:

"Besides providing valuable financial services to Rhode Islanders, FleetBoston is also one of the state’s largest private employers.  I am concerned about a report that as many as 13,000 employees nationwide could be let go as a result of the merger.  Currently, approximately 4,000 FleetBoston employees work around Rhode Island in both branch and corporate offices.  Laying off these employees in such a difficult economic environment would have a devastating impact on the Rhode Island economy. 

“It is critical to Rhode Island’s working families, and to the financial health of the state, that Rhode Island does not lose jobs as a result of the FleetBoston and Bank of America merger,” Langevin continued.  “As we work to retain existing jobs, I look forward to working with Bank of America to create new, well-paying jobs for Rhode Islanders.  FleetBoston enjoys a long tradition of service and employment to the state of Rhode Island, and I hope that Bank of America will continue that legacy.”

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