By IL Public Radio / AP
chicago, Ill. – People who buy new hybrid cars in Illinois can now get a $1,000 tax rebate.
State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias says consumer and environmental groups helped get the program started. "People are thrilled with the notion that the state can do it's part to help people who are close to buying a hybrid and hopefully this incentive will push them over the edge and encourage them to take them a larger role in cleaning up our environment," Giannoulias said Sunday.
Some of Illinois' largest environmental groups applaud the $2 million program, though they hope consumers choose hybrids with the highest fuel efficiency. Some hybrids get less than 20 miles per gallon, while others can top 50 miles per gallon.
The new tax rebate is available only to buyers who secure car loans from participating lenders.