updated 9:04 p.m. ET Aug. 6, 2009
WASHINGTON - Pedal to the metal, Congress sent President Barack Obama legislation Thursday night with an additional $2 billion for "cash for clunkers," the economy-boosting rebate program that caught the fancy of car buyers and instantly increased sales for an auto industry long mired(陷入泥沼，困境) in recession.
The Senate approved the money on a 60-37 vote after administration officials said an initial $1 billion had run out in only 10 days. The House voted last week to keep alive the program, which gives consumers up to $4,500 in federal subsidies if they trade in their cars for new, more energy-efficient models.
Without action, lawmakers risked a wave of voter discontent as they left the Capitol for a monthlong vacation.