The SEMA Action Network has alerted us to a serious nationwide vehicle scrappage program that is being drafted as part of the economic stimulus package.

According to SEMA: Washington lawmakers are drafting a large economic stimulus package to help create jobs and rebuild infrastructure. They want to include a nationwide scrappage program which would give U.S. tax dollars to consumers who turn-in older cars to have them crushed as a misguided attempt to spur new car sales. The lawmakers need to scrap this idea. 

The stimulus package is being drafted right now. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) wants to introduce the bill on January 6 and have it approved by Congress by January 20 so President Obama can sign it into law after he is inaugurated.
 
Contact House Speaker Nancy Pelosi immediately to oppose Cash for Clunkers! Call 202/225-0100 or send an electronic message at: http://speaker.house.gov/contact/.  

Here are some talking points for your message:

• I am [calling/writing] to urge lawmakers not to include a "Cash for Clunkers" provision in the economic stimulus bill. Owners who turn in vehicles for crushing would receive a "minimal" payment to purchase a new car. This is a misguided attempt to spur car sales and claim that the country’s air quality or fleet fuel mileage is being improved.

• "Cash for Clunkers" programs threaten enthusiasts nationwide with the loss of valuable parts and parts-cars for repair, restoration, and customization projects. The programs also risk destroying classic, historic and special-interest vehicles, our American heritage.  

• Cars turned in for scrappage often barely run, or are rarely-driven second or third vehicles that have a minimal impact on overall fuel economy or emissions. 

• "Cash for Clunkers" programs will reduce the availability of affordable transportation and repair parts used by low-income drivers. It will also compete with the Salvation Army, the Purple Heart and other charities that rely on vehicle donations to raise money.

• "Cash for Clunkers" ignores better policy options. If Congress wants to act, support for repair and upgrade is a better choice and a win-win for consumers, dealers, manufacturers and repair shops. Significant emissions and fuel economy improvements can be achieved in older vehicles through relatively simple and inexpensive means: repaired/replaced exhaust systems, tune-ups, etc.

Please send a quick note and/or a copy of your message to Speaker Pelosi to:
E-mail:  briand@sema.org
Fax:      202/783-6024