Will car donation take a back seat to Congress' new Cash For Clunkers bill?

The U.S. House of Representatives is working on a bill designed to provide a financial incentive for consumers to get rid of their gas guzzlers and replace them with more economical, fuel-efficient cars. The bill, tacked onto a military spending bill, will give consumers who "trade down" a $4,500 stipend for use in the purchase of the new car. If you are buying a new car, and that new car gets better mileage than your old one, you could be eligible for the Cash For Clunkers financial incentive. Global warming and the greenhouse gas issue are obviously big problems that need addressing, and for that we applaud Congress, but what about the normal people who already drive fuel efficient cars? They already do their part for the environment, and because of that they aren't eligible for the $4,500 rebate.

Is that fair? Maybe not, but there is always another option for people with older, fuel efficient cars who want a little financial assistance for their next purchase: car donation! I know, I know - we talk about it a lot, but for good reason. Car donation is an incredibly viable way for anyone to take part in the charity process while still doing their part for environment. When you donate a car to charity, you may not be getting that big fat government check, but you will be receiving a tax break commensurate with the value of your car, and you will be helping a family in need of assistance. And besides, most cars coming out nowadays have better fuel economy than their predecessors, so your new car purchase will most likely be better for the environment. 

 Provided the bill passes - which it should - we don't foresee any potential for conflict between car donation and the Cash For Clunkers program. We're all committed to helping the greater good, whether it's through environmental action or charitable contributions, and both Cash For Clunkers and car donation can help achieve that.