Carson Votes to Continue Successful 'Cash for Clunkers' Program

July 31, 2009

Contact: Justin Ohlemiller – 317-283-6516 or 317-468-5167

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman André Carson issued the following statement after voting to provide an additional $2 billion to the "Cash for Clunkers" program, which provides vouchers to consumers who trade in old, inefficient vehicles for new, fuel-efficient ones:

"This week, I was amazed to witness the extreme popularity of the ‘Cash for Clunkers' program.  So many Americans have chosen to take advantage of this program that it has surpassed early expectations and run out of funding just one week after taking effect. I am pleased that thousands of Americans have been able to purchase new vehicles, and I believe that this unexpected success clearly illustrates the need for an immediate expansion of funding that would allow the program to continue.

"In this difficult economic climate, as unemployment rises and incomes drop, it has become very difficult for many families to replace their old, gas-guzzling automobiles. By passing this legislation, the House has maintained a critical program that provides American consumers with the assistance they need to purchase new vehicles—helping to bolster our struggling auto industry, promote fuel efficiency, and create and protect American jobs.

"In the coming months, I look forward to the continued success of the ‘Cash for Clunkers' program and to the widespread benefits it will bring to our economy and environment."

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