COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - A bill that would
give consumers a state income tax credit for purchasing hybrid cars
passed a House subcommittee Tuesday.
The $500 to $700 tax credit also would apply to automobiles powered
by bio-diesel, hydrogen fuel cells and other alternative technologies
under an amendment lawmakers hope to put in place before the full Ways
and Means committee considers the bill Wednesday.
Officials estimate it will cost the state $1.5 million in annual tax
revenue.
Rep. James Battle, D-Nichols, called the lost revenue "a small price
to pay" for encouraging consumers to purchase more environmentally
friendly and fuel-efficient cars.
