U.S. Sen. Mark Warner says he'll try to convince International Paper to reconsider its decision to shut down its plant in Franklin, which would put 1,100 people out of work.

Warner told city officials, business leaders and workers Sunday he'll send a letter along with other senators from Virginia and North Carolina to the company's chief executive officer.

The world's largest maker of cardboard box materials announced plans last week to cut 1,600 positions in four states as it copes with diminished demand.

Workers at the Franklin plant come from both Virginia and North Carolina.

If the plant closes, though, Warner says he'll ensure workers get any federal aid they're entitled to while looking for new jobs.

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