I have a feeling dealers are going to automatically increase prices because of the increased demand (artificial) for great MPG cars. So the thousands of savings from this bill for consumers is not entirely accurate.

With the price increase, I'm certain some markets you'll come out even as if they never offered this voucher. It is poorly written legislation.

As a boost to the car industry it could see them through a tight spot, assuming the market has picked up by the time it ends. If it has not it spells trouble for auto makers.

Mother Nature suffers, because we are encouraged to consume more in the form of another car manufactured, that otherwise would not have been bought so soon.

Consumers suffer, because they are encouraged to go into debt once again, rather than making do with a car likely to be paid off.

The taxpayer suffers, having to foot the bill.

Bottom line - "cash for clunkers" is a terrible idea. Much better is a $1/gallon gas tax, balanced by a decrease in payroll taxes. That would actually boost purchases of fuel-efficient cars, with no average cost to taxpayers.

If only President Obama would spend some of that famed political capital to do the right thing.