Lofgren Introduces Flex Fuel Bill to Combat Climate Change
Team Up for Energy Independence Act Promotes Alternatively Fueled Vehicles
Media Contact: Kyra Jennings, 202.225.3072, kyra.jennings@mail.house.gov
July 28, 2006
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) today introduced H.R. 5959, the TEAM (To Encourage Alternatively fueled vehicle Manufacturing) Up for Energy Independence Act of 2006, which will encourage the production of alternatively fueled vehicles by phasing in a tax penalty on the manufacture or import of new, non-flex fuel cars, light trucks, and SUVs.
“This summer’s record heat and record gas prices have people rightly concerned about global warming and our country’s oil consumption. My bill would be a step to help combat climate change and promote energy independence by encouraging the development and distribution of alternatively fueled vehicles.”
H.R. 5959 phases in a tax penalty on the manufacture or import of new, non-flex fuel vehicles. Any revenues generated by this tax will then be used to help independent gas station owners install alternative fuel equipment. Since the cost of producing flex fuel vehicles is minimal at the time of manufacturing, these tax penalties can be easily avoided and will provide a needed incentive to move this emerging alternative energy technology forward.
“Currently, there are only 6 million flex fuel capable cars on the road and only about 500 fueling stations that provide alternative fuel across the country — with just 4 stations in California. We must do more to make flex fuel vehicles practical and accessible to everyone,” Rep. Lofgren continued. “H.R. 5959 is a good first step towards securing our energy independence, and I hope that Congress will move quickly to pass my important legislation and help America move towards a more secure and sustainable future.”