Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Joe Donnelly voted to increase funding for the “cash for clunkers” program, which allows consumers to trade in their old, gas-guzzling cars for vouchers worth up to $4,500 to help pay for new, more fuel-efficient vehicles. The program, originally funded at $1 billion, is so popular that funds ran out in less than a week.
“The ‘cash for clunkers’ program has proven to be an effective stimulus program, especially for north central Indiana,” Donnelly said. “Not only does it get older, less fuel-efficient cars off the road, but it’s gotten over 200,000 folks into auto showrooms, greatly boosting car sales. This program is a win-win-win—for the economy, the environment and consumers. I will continue to follow how the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration administers ‘cash for clunkers’ to make sure it’s working smoothly for dealers and Hoosier consumers.”
The House of Representatives passed legislation today that will replenish funds for the “cash for clunkers” program with an additional $2 billion. This money will be transferred to the program from an Energy Department fund that wasn’t to be tapped until November.
The legislation is now pending before the Senate.
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