Baumgardner noted 'there are a number of legal and administrative requirements with which the Department must comply, such as the National Environmental Policy Act, we anticipate it could take at least 6 to 18 months or more, after necessary funds are appropriated' before it awarded any auto loans. That response did not sit well with Michigan lawmakers. 'It appears that DOE is making excuses for its own anticipated failures,' said U.S. Rep. John Dingell, D-Dearborn, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. '...If DOE is asking for vigorous oversight to ensure it performs its duties, we will be happy to oblige.' The auto loans are included in a stopgap spending measure to fund the federal government through March 6. The House has approved the spending plan. The Senate on Thursday delayed a vote until at least Friday because of talks over the Wall Street bailout bill, but also is expected to approve the measure. President Bush is expected to sign the bill before Sept. 30, when the current budget expires. The loan program was authorized in the Energy Act passed in December 2007, but the Energy Department didn't begin writing the regulations until late August. Other government loan programs also have taken a long time to get funding allocated. The Energy Department has yet to award loans from a $2 billion advanced energy program approved in 2005. Last October, it selected 26 finalists, but hasn't said when it will award funds. Ford Motor Co. spokesman Mike Moran said the company was 'hopeful DOE can meet the timing outlined by Congress.' U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, was more direct. 'This is unacceptable; this investment is too important to Michigan for the Department of Energy to drag their feet,' Rogers said. The House approved $7.5 billion to cover the cost of the loans. You can reach David Shepardson at (202) 662-8735 or dshepardsondteom.