Efficient Automoble Rebate System Bill (Failed)

[Franzl]

I tend to oppose this idea. I have concerns about what it would to to the automobile market in the near future.....I don't dispute that it would increase automobile sales (whether or not that's a good thing is another matter), but even after the economic crisis is over, I have my doubts as to whether people that purchased a car under this program would go out and buy another one just because they have a job again. I think we're only delaying the slump rather than preventing it.

Furthermore, even if you argue that putting newer and more efficient cars (and BTW, I would only support 33 mpg, if at all), would have a net positive effect on the environment, I would use caution. Manufacturing a new car requires lots and lots of energy, probably more than you would save by operating a more efficient vehicle as opposed to your "clunker".

I generally see this whole idea as a waste of money.

[Franzl]

I don't think anyone is disputing the effectiveness of such a program to increase demand in the short term.

[Franzl]

Well I don't support this program at all....but an "American only" clause is particularly disgusting.

[Franzl]

Don't we already have some pretty sizable tax breaks and/or subsidies for buying fuel efficient cars? Or am I misremembering?

Yes, I actually was the sponsor of it back then. I'm not sure it was a great idea, but it's there.

[Franzl]

https://uselectionatlas.org/AFEWIKI/index.php/Fuel_Efficient_Cars_Act

[Franzl]

Although I still plan to vote against this bill....I believe that it'll pass the Senate easily, and the program is somewhat more acceptable to me if we require more strict fuel consumption standards.

AYE

[Franzl]

I propose an addition to Section 2:

You must be logged in to read this quote.

This was part of the German rebate package (it was actually 1 year), and I think it's probably a good idea to keep people from gaming the system by purchasing a vehicle for less than the amount of the rebate with the sole purpose of trading it in under this program.

[Franzl]

I request a vote on my amendment.

[Franzl]

Aye

[Franzl]

There has been no debate in a while. I request a final vote.

[Franzl]

Ummmm, Mr. PPT?

[Franzl]

Nay