Contacts:
Matt Dempsey Matt_Dempsey@epw.senate.gov (202) 224-9797
David Lungren David_Lungren@epw.senate.gov (202) 224-5642
EPW HEARING HIGHLIGHTS PROBLEMS WITH CORN ETHANOL MANDATE
Inhofe Announces Plans to Introduce Corn Ethanol Reform Legislation Soon
Link to Inhofe EPW Webpage: Providing Responsible Oversight of Federal Ethanol Policy
Watch: Inhofe Hearing Statement: Consumers Deserve Ethanol-Free Gasoline Choice at the Pump
Watch: Inhofe Discusses Need for Ethanol-Free Gasoline At Senate Hearing
Washington, D.C.-Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, welcomed today's EPW Committee hearing on federal ethanol policy, which was held at his request.
"I want to thank Chairman Boxer for holding this important oversight hearing today on federal ethanol policy," Senator Inhofe said. "I requested this hearing to address concerns raised by my constituents in Oklahoma about the lack of access to ethanol-free gasoline. Their concerns are valid: certain blends of ethanol in gasoline may cause engine damage and decrease fuel economy.
"With the passage of the 2007 energy bill, Congress pushed too much corn ethanol too fast. Due to the 15 billion gallon corn ethanol mandate, many gas stations are now no longer able to sell clear gasoline, which many consumers prefer. In response, I will be introducing legislation soon that, in part, allows a state to use so-called clear gasoline instead of corn-based ethanol. My bill would allow for fuel producers to respond to market demands-specifically, when and where consumers prefer clear gas.
"As I have noted on several occasions, Oklahoma - and the Noble foundation in particular - is well known for its work on cellulosic biofuels. My bill would not affect other portions of the renewable fuel standard affecting cellulosic or advanced biofuels."
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