Senate Adds NADA-Backed Auto Incentive Amendment to Stimulus Package

WASHINGTON -- NADA's grassroots lobbying campaign in support of the auto incentive amendment paid off today when the Senate, by a vote of 71-26, agreed to add the measure to the broader economic stimulus package. The amendment, offered by Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), would make interest and sales taxes deductible for new-vehicle purchases until the end of this year.

"The dealers' voice was heard," said John McEleney, NADA chairman. "Because of dealer efforts, senators overwhelmingly voted in favor of the auto incentive amendment, which would help jump-start auto sales," added McEleney.

NADA issued a legislative call-to-action yesterday urging dealers to call their senators in support of the Mikulski amendment.

The economic stimulus package is expected to pass the Senate this week. Differences in the House and Senate versions will be worked out in a joint conference committee.

"This is a huge step in the right direction," said David Regan, NADA vice president of legislative affairs. "It's important for dealers to thank their senators for their vote on this critical amendment.

"Our next challenge will be to preserve this provision as it moves through conference negotiations," added Regan.

Source: NADA Newswire