Senate To Vote On $2 Billion “Cash For Clunkers” Extension

The Senate is expected to add $2 billion to the “cash-for-clunkers” program Thursday, after considering some changes that are not likely to be approved. Majority Leader Harry Reid says a “significant majority” wants to move forward with the legislation, which would keep the program going until Labor Day.

AP
Published: August 6, 2009

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WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate is expected to add $2 billion to the “cash-for-clunkers” program Thursday, after considering some changes that are not likely to be approved.

Majority Leader Harry Reid says a “significant majority” wants to move forward with the legislation, which would keep the program going until Labor Day.

Reid agreed to allow senators to offer some amendments as a goodwill gesture to those who otherwise might try to delay a final vote on the measure already passed by the House.

Proposed changes include placing an income limit on those benefiting from the vouchers. Iowa Democrat Tom Harkin wants to limit eligibility to individuals earning less than $50,000 a year or joint filers earning less than $75,000.

But that and other amendments are not expected to pass.

The program offers cash to car buyers who are trading in gas guzzlers for more fuel-efficient models. It’s proved so popular that the original $1 billion for the program is expected to run out by Friday.