WASHINGTON - A group of 40 House Democrats -- part of the New Democrat Coalition -- wrote a letter Friday to the Japanese ambassador to the United States, Ichiro Fujisaki, calling for the country to allow U.S. manufacturers to participate in Japan's "cash for clunkers" program, while Congress is planning two hearings on the issue in the coming weeks, reported The Detroit News.

Japan's program is set to expire March 31, and the Japanese Diet -- the country's legislature -- is considering extending it.

The Japanese government has rejected criticism that its $3.7 billion program unfairly excludes Detroit automakers.

A House Energy and Commerce subcommittee chaired by Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Menominee, is planning to hold a hearing on the Japanese program on Jan. 26. The witness list hasn't been finalized for the hearing.

Another hearing is planned for Jan. 21 on barriers to U.S. auto imports in Japan and South Korea by a House Ways and Means subcommittee.