Squandering the Stimulus: Average American Households Spent Economic Stimulus on Gas

Executive Summary

Without sufficient alternatives to driving, American families spent their entire economic stimulus check on high-priced gas.  According to new analysis from the Illinois PIRG (Public Interest Research Group), since President Bush signed the tax rebates into law on February 13th, the average household spent over $1500 filling their tanks. Gas costs were higher than average in areas without robust public transportation.

The report highlighted the need to invest in the region’s transit infrastructure to give people an alternative to high gas prices.