EPW hearing highlights problems with corn ethanol mandate

Click Here To See More Pictures of Ethanol-Free Signs from Oklahoma Mentioned by Inhofe at Hearing Link to Press Release 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.

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"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."