National Press Release

Victory for Consumers and Small Business Owners

BETHESDA, Md., Feb. 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The "Cash for Clunkers" amendment to the United States Senate stimulus package was withdrawn from the bill on Thursday. The "Cash for Clunkers" program would have earmarked federal funds for car owners to trade in their sport utility vehicles in exchange for vouchers to be used to obtain newer, more fuel efficient vehicles.

"We are thrilled that this amendment was withdrawn from the stimulus package," said Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). "This amendment was full of potholes from the beginning and once the Senators were informed of all the unintended harmful consequences that would have resulted from inclusion of this amendment in the bill, they made a very wise and informed decision to remove this amendment from the stimulus package."

Congress and states have considered "Cash for Clunkers" proposals in the past and in many cases have decided against them. Many legislators have come to realize the unintended consequences of this program and that they are not a cost effective use of government money.

"I want to thank our AAIA staff and most importantly our membership for their hard work in getting out the word about the problems 'Cash for Clunkers' would cause," continued Schmatz. "Their letters, emails and phone calls opposing 'Cash for Clunkers' were instrumental in getting this amendment removed. The elimination of this amendment is a great victory for vehicle owners as well as for every small business owner who is involved in the automotive industry."

About AAIA

AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 23,000 member and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tool, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.

SOURCE Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association