Yes, this is the billion dollar question. Why is there legislation waiting in the wings to be voted on, that could cost U.S. taxpayers this much money? Well, fuel-efficiency.

Representative Dan Lungren, a Republican, of California's 3rd Congressional District has proposed a bill that would award the first U.S. domestic car manufacturer that makes 60,000 mid-sized sedans that run completely on gas and get at least a whopping 100 miles to the gallon.

As the legislation reads, hybrids and plug-ins are invalid for the cash prize. Personally, I think this is a great opportunity for car manufacturers, the government, and the U.S.'s occupants in general. The ROI on this billion dollar investment could be incredible. Advancements of this kind of nature could propel U.S. automakers back to the top of the world car market. This could put our people back to work creating innovative products.

Does this excite you at all or do you think it's a bad idea? Comment on our Facebook or tweet us here.