Chamber indicates support for auto program targeted by GOP for cuts

“[T]he program was authorized in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which was supported by both Republicans and Democrats as an important step in reducing America’s dependence on oil from unstable regimes,” the letter said.

{mosads}It also added that loans under the program help provide “new opportunities for American workers in the sector of the economy that is critical to the nation’s recovery.” That seemed to echo arguments from Democrats who said cutting the program would hurt job creation.

The Chamber did not insist that the ATMV program cannot be cut. It did, however, send a strong message of support by saying it wishes to “highlight” these facts about the program, and asks senators to “bear in mind” concerns as the debate continues.

By noon Thursday, there were some reports that House Republicans were considering a shorter-term continuing resolution. The one that failed Wednesday would have let the government continue operating through Nov. 18.

Republicans might also be considering a separate bill to increase funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The failed resolution offered $3.65 billion in new FEMA funds, all of which were offset with cuts to the ATVM program and others.

Senate Democrats have pushed for a $7.9 billion increase to FEMA.