HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WENY) -- Representative Nick Langworthy has asked the Biden administration to intervene as possible layoffs loom over Hardinge's Super-Precision business.

"The closure of this unit will lead to the loss of more than fifty, skilled trade and manufacturing jobs focused on the production of cutting-edge, highly technical equipment and technology,” wrote Langworthy, in a letter to the U.S. Department of Energy Secretary. “It is imperative that the DOE works with Hardinge to navigate these challenges and maintain the critical equipment and expertise supplied by the Super-Precision Unit.”

Langworthy said the unit plays an essential role to the local economy, national security and domestic supply chains.

The letter comes after Hardinge circulated a notice to employees Friday that those who work for the company's Super-Precision unit could lose their jobs if Hardinge does not secure funding by August 9.

On Monday, Hardinge announced that they filled for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company says a financial sponsor, Centre Lane Partners, has purchased $30 million of Hardinge's debt and will buy most of its assets, but the Super-Precision business was not part of the deal.

Langworthy is asking the DOE to intervene because he says the closure of the Super-Precision operation would directly impact DOE projects. According to Langworthy, Hardinge's Super-Precision unit is a critical supplier for the National Nuclear Security Administration.

"Given the enhanced designation and clearance Hardinge has recently received from the DOE, and the important role it plays, and would continue to play, in areas that are critical to our national security, the closure of this unit will have a serious impact on the DOE's ability to accomplish current and future projects," Langworthy wrote.

If the jobs are lost, Langworthy said it would greatly interrupt the economic stability of families in the area.