House Republican Press Release

May 23, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. STRIPP DEMANDS SPECIAL SESSION TO ADDRESS CLEAN GAS TAX EXEMPTIONS

HARTFORD – Rep. John E. Stripp expressed dismay that legislation that gives tax exemptions for clean and alternative fuel vehicles will be forced to sunset due to inaction by the supermajority in the General Assembly.

Senate Bill 125, An Act Concerning Tax Exemptions For Clean And Alternative Fuel Vehicles, extends, for four years, various tax exemptions and credits for the purchase of motor vehicles powered by clean alternative fuels, equipment used to convert them to such use, equipment used in filling and recharging stations, and the fuels themselves. It also extends by four years a tax exemption for petroleum products used as fuel in a fuel cell. 

Rep. John Stripp said, “Connecticut must continue its existing tax incentives for the use of natural gas in over the road vehicles. SB-125 must be included in the special session agenda. Natural gas is much more eco friendly then gasoline and an efficient way to provide vehicle power especially when combined with Hybrid Technology.

According to the Motor Transport Association of Connecticut, the delivery services industry relies on this tax exemption. United Parcel Service (UPS) announced a major increase in its investment in alternative-fuel vehicles, saying it has ordered 200 diesel-electric hybrid delivery vans and 300 vans powered by compressed natural gas.

According to the government a major difference between oil and natural gas, is that natural gas is predominantly a North American resource; specifically, 85 percent is produced in the U.S.

“Natural gas is still plentiful in the US and Canada there by reducing energy imports from outside North America,” added Stripp.

“I want to thank the Motor Transport Association of Connecticut for bringing this legislative short fall to my attention. Ct has been a leader on this issue and with $135 per barrel oil it is imperative that we retain our leadership position,” concluded Rep. John Stripp.