Washington, DC - Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (D) Missouri applauded the passage of H.R. 2751, the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act, commonly known as the "Cash for Clunkers" act.  The bill passed the U.S. House today by a final vote of 298- 119.  "This is a great idea for car buyers, auto makers and local dealers.  It will spur the purchase of over 1 million newer, more efficient vehicles which will save manufacturing jobs, clean our air, and make the United States less dependent on foreign oil. 

The “Cash for Clunkers” program will allow consumers to trade in their old, gas-guzzling cars for vouchers worth up to $4,500," said the Congressman.  "This is a smart program that will help save money at the pump as we reduce consumption by over 250 million gallons of gas. It goes a long way towards getting Americans back to work and behind the wheel of a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly car.”

The legislation provides rebates for cars and trucks in the following four categories:
· Passenger Cars: The old vehicle must get 18 mpg or less. New vehicles with improvement of at least 4 mpg will get a $3,500 voucher. New vehicles with improvement of at least 10 mpg will get a $4,500 voucher.
· Light-Duty Trucks: The old vehicle must get 18 mpg or less. New vehicles with improvement of at least 2 mpg will get a $3,500 voucher. New vehicles with improvement of at least 5 mpg will get a $4,500 voucher.
· Large light-Duty Trucks: The old vehicle must get 15 mpg or less. New vehicles with improvement of at least 1 mpg will get a $3,500 voucher or trade-in of a “work truck.” New vehicles with improvement of at least 2 mpg will get a $4,500 voucher.
· Work Trucks: The old vehicle must be a pre-2002 model. New vehicles in the same or smaller weight class will get a $3,500 voucher.
The bipartisan legislation is supported by a broad coalition that includes the AFL-CIO, UAW, car dealers, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers.   The bill now moves on to the U.S. Senate for further consideration.