California passed a law that allows those driving hybrids to use the carpool lane even if they’re driving alone. The law was supposed to take effect on Jan. 1, but since the feds haven’t signed off on it, hybrid owners cannot yet enjoy this special perk. New Haven’s mayor has jumped on the newest show-you-love-hybrids fad: proposing free parking for the gas sippers. And, of course, there’s that federal tax break that’s available to hybrid owners. States like California, Colorado, Maryland, New York and Oregon offer additional tax perks. Interesting that there are tax breaks galore for hybrids, and yet new laws take a huge whack at the deduction car donators can claim. That’ll hurt lots of charities that generate revenue from reselling donated cars. Why aren’t politicians lining up to show their love for these charities?