Industry-Backed CAFE Standards Signed Into Law

President Bush has signed into law an energy bill that would require automobile manufacturers to produce new light vehicles at a fleet-wide average of 35 miles per gallon by the year 2020. 

While threats of a Presidential veto loomed earlier in the process, Senate amendments which were accepted by the House paved the way for Bush's ultimate approval. The new legislation coined, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (H.R. 6), passed the House Tuesday, December 18th by a 314-100 margin.

In a statement issued after House approval of the bill, AIADA President Cody Lusk emphasized that the new national standards will lead America in the right direction while continuing to allow American consumers options in vehicle selection:

AIADA applauds the House and Senate for recognizing the need for an aggressive national CAFE program. Our dealer members are extremely proud that the international nameplate franchises they represent are committed to enhancing fuel economy and have continued to be consistent leaders in this effort.

The bill has been called an historic achievement as it is the first successful effort by Congress since 1975 to increase national fuel economy standards.

Click here to download a copy of AIADA's letter to the House of Representatives.