Proposition 10 on the November ballot would offer California taxpayer money, some $3.4 billion, to help consumers buy cars and trucks that use clean alternative fuels and get 45 miles per gallon or better.

The recent wild ride of economic indicators has been likened to peering over a precipice. Everyone is looking over the edge and seems a bit unsteady, and rightfully so. There are no barriers to hold onto. Economic vertigo engulfs you and there is so much to be lost over the edge.