Open Illinois.org

Some lawmakers claim the administration’s latest “stimulus” program, “Cash for Clunkers,” is a huge success, while others regard it as a complete failure.  Those who support the program say it’s beneficial for the environment and the American automobile industry, but is there enough information available to support these claims?

Without the quick release of government records on the program, there is no way to know whether or not the program is a success. The Obama administration and Department of Transportation are currently not cooperating with requests asking for the release of records, which clarify how much US car manufacturers are benefitting from the original $1billion allotted to the program.

This lack of transparency raises concern considering some lawmakers want to pump another $2 billion into the program. How is anyone supposed to know whether or not the program should have more money, if we have no way to measure its success or failure?  The Obama administration promised transparency, but so far the public has seen more closed than open government.