House of Representatives Bill Project

Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

The Fuel-Smart America Act (H.R. 2035)

For this project, I wrote a bill that would make fuel-efficient vehicles more affordable without requiring everyone to buy the same kind of car. My proposal combines rebates, gradual efficiency standards, exemptions for specialized vehicles, and public reporting.

A Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid displayed at an auto show.
A plug-in hybrid is one example of a vehicle that could qualify; the bill does not require a specific technology.

Project overview

Why I chose this issue

I chose fuel-efficient vehicles because transportation policy affects both household costs and national energy use. I wanted to write a proposal that improves efficiency but still gives drivers a choice.

  1. 1
    Help buyers at the dealership.
    The bill offers a rebate for qualifying new and used vehicles, with extra help for lower-income buyers.
  2. 2
    Set gradual goals.
    Manufacturers would improve fleet fuel economy over time instead of facing one sudden requirement.
  3. 3
    Keep consumer choice.
    A gasoline, hybrid, electric, or other vehicle can qualify if it meets the same rules.
  4. 4
    Include exemptions and oversight.
    Specialized vehicles are protected, and agencies must publish the program’s costs and results.

Required materials

Project documents

  • The bill

    Full text of H.R. 2035, including its five sections, funding, exemptions, and oversight.

  • Letter to Representative Mike Levin

    A one-page letter explaining the proposal and asking for support.

  • Works Cited

    Six federal sources in MLA format, plus additional research links.