Congressional members need to focus on their fuel-efficient cars

Morning News
Published: July 15, 2008

Every year, taxpayers spend about $1 million to lease vehicles for 127 members in the House of Representatives, which is more than a quarter of the 435-member body. Gasoline also is charged to the taxpayer.

Those who do not lease are reimbursed 50.5 cents per mile for use of personal vehicles. This rate stays the same if the lawmaker owns a sport utility vehicle or a hybrid.

While Congress spent much of May debating ways to reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign oil, it’s best they also take a look at their own vehicles.

According to a recent Media General News Service report, from a review of congressional financial records, it shows half of all vehicles leased by members of Congress with taxpayer funds are gasoline-guzzling SUVs.

Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., for example, leases a 2007 Lincoln Towncar, which has a monthly payment of $726.48, according to a database of autos leased by members of Congress. In the city, the car gets 15 mpg, and on the highway, 23 mpg.

There was little notice on less-efficient vehicles when gasoline was at $2. Now that gasoline prices have soared past $4, members who do lease taxpayer-financed vehicles should re-evaluate their choice in cars. Members should be more focused on how fuel-efficient their vehicles are rather than how luxurious they can be.
A new law taking effect now surely will help matters.

In 2005, Congress passed an energy bill that mandates members of Congress can only lease fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicles.

The change, sponsored by Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, D-Mo., thought that since Congress forced auto companies to increase fuel economy, lawmakers should follow suit.

During a time when Congress is looking at ways to reduce the nation’s oil dependence, so should they look at reasonably priced fuel-efficient vehicles and consider the taxpayer’s dime.

According to the Media General News Service report, Rep Joe Wilson, R-S.C., is one of 62 lawmakers who leases a taxpayer-financed 2007 Ford Explorer, but said he’s considering going back to a hybrid after his lease runs out.

“Rising gas prices are having a rough impact on the American family’s budget and, consequently, our driving habits. More fuel-efficient cars will have to be part of our future energy policy,” he said.

The push for fuel efficiency, hopefully, will have Congress better understand the oil dependency, as well as develop the sense of urgency needed for a more energy independent state.

It wouldn’t hurt to stop government waste, either, when taxpayers are feeling the pain in the pocket for their own cars.