Stupak Criticizes Agency Over Foreign Cars

A federal agency that has encouraged its employees to buy foreign-made cars has drawn protest from Congressman Bart Stupak and the Michigan Congressional delegation, who wrote the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Tuesday, September 18, criticizing the agency for the move.

A recent memo from department managers encouraged employees to buy smaller sedans instead of sport utility vehicles (SUVs), and claims automobiles are responsible for air pollution, oil spills, pollution of water supplies, and damage to natural habitats. The memo included a "Top 12" list of recommended vehicles. The list fails to include any vehicle made by a U.S. automobile manufacturer, according to Mr. Stupak's office.

"For HHS to be officially endorsing products is bad enough," Mr. Stupak noted. "For the agency to be endorsing foreign cars over U.S. cars is completely unacceptable."

Mr. Stupak also noted that American automobile manufactures have made progress in protecting the environment, improving fuel efficiency, and increasing the number of hybrid vehicles and flex-fuel vehicles that can run on an E-85 ethanol blend. There are more than 4.4 million flex-fuel vehicles on the road today, he noted.

"U.S. automobile manufacturers sell a wide range of fuel efficient and fuel flexible vehicles," Mr. Stupak noted. "It is inappropriate for HHS officials to make recommendations on private purchase to their employees. I wish HHS would worry about the safety of our nation's food and drug supply, as opposed to what vehicle their employees drive. I hope HHS demonstrates more discretion in the future."