US senator proposes 100 dollar handout against higher oil prices

0 Comments | AFP, April, 2006

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The top US senator proposed that the government give Americans 100 dollars for gasoline as the skyrocketing cost of fuel for cars has lawmakers worried just six months ahead of mid-term elections.

Stipulating that the money be paid by August 30 -- just two months before the national polls -- Senate Republican majority leader Bill Frist proposed the 100 dollar rebate to consumers as part of a budget package now under consideration.

"Consumers are feeling pain at the pump, and Republicans are moving aggressively to address their concerns," Frist said.

The opposition Democrats quickly denounced the proposal, saying it was far from the average 500 dollars extra the gasoline (petrol) price will cost each household this year.

They also...