New Energy Bill Forces Some Congressmen to Give Up Cars

[babylonsister]

To members' dismay, fuel efficiency starts in House
By ANNA M. TINSLEY
Star-Telegram Staff Writer


U.S. Rep. Joe Barton is proud to drive a 2007 flex-fuel Chevy Tahoe made at the Arlington GM plant in his district.

But he may have to trade it in for a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle because of a little-noticed provision in last year's energy bill.

That measure requires House members who lease vehicles through their office to make sure that they are energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

"For not being a hybrid, this is as good as it gets," Barton, R-Arlington, said of the truck, which uses various fuel blends and gets 21 mpg on the highway.

But it may not be good enough.

more...

http://www.star-telegram.com/804/story/650776.html

[Donnachaidh]

1. They should be stripped of ALL perks, including healthcare

Why the hell are we providing cars AND a gas allowance to these do-nothing sponges? They've done diddly-shit for the consumers that not only have to pay for their own car maintenance AND gas, they have to pay for vehicles for THEM as well. These people AREN'T CEOs - they are public employees. They need a big ole dose of REALITY to get their fat arses in gear and do something. Hitting THEM in the pocket is the only way we can do it. These folks live the new American Mantra of *F*CK YOU -- I've got MINE*.

:rant:

[KharmaTrain]

2. "Politically Correct" Drivers...LOL

You know this is being done to look good to the folks at home. I guess he won't be parading on the 4th in the red, white and blue Hummer :rofl:

Here's a dude bagging a 6 figure salary, excellent benefits and I'm sure he gets a nice gas allowance as well (if he doesn't just deduct the whole thing)...and I'm certain many of his fellow GOOPers still have the gas hogs and this regime continues to shuttle its "big wigs" around in gas guzzling limos. But it sure sounds good to the folks at home, don't it.

[Javaman]

3. Why is this guy driving a truck in a metropolitan environment to begin with? nt

[Ian David]

4. He needs a vehicle with enough room to fuck his mistress. n/t