‘Cash for Clunkers’ Comes to a Screeching Halt
by Amanda Wills
Published on August 4th, 2009
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In June, Congress passed the “Cash for Clunkers” bill in an effort to jump start to automotive industry’s recovery. The one billion dollar program was initially set to run through Nov. 1, however, just weeks after its debut, funds are already running dry, according to Reuters.
The program provides vouchers, worth as much as $4,500, to consumers who replace old and inefficient vehicles with newer, fuel-efficient models. Its success has been unexpected, to say the least.
“This has been a wildly popular program and given new life to auto dealers,” Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in an interview with C-SPAN. “This has worked very, very well.”
But the program will not be able to continue if a proposed $2 billion extension isn’t approved. While the House has approved the extra cash, it is already on summer break. Therefore, the Senate will have to approve the funding as-is. Because several Senators from both parties are opposed to the extension, the program’s shut down is a possible reality.
If the Senate does not approve the funding, the program could be suspended by midweek. Earth911.com will be following this story closely. Check back for updates later this week.
