WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives has passed an amendment blocking federal funding of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) action to implement the use of E15, a higher level of ethanol in gasoline.
The amendment to H.R. 1, the Full Year Continuing Appropriations Act 201, was introduced by Oklahoma first district Congressman John Sullivan and was passed by a vote of 286 to 135.
Sullivan said the amendment prevents consumer confusion at the pump and protects the engines of vehicles and outdoor power equipment.
“My amendment ensures consumer safety, plain and simple," Sullivan said. "The EPA has completely ignored calls from lawmakers, industry, environmental and consumer groups to address important safety issues raised by the 50 percent increase in the ethanol mandate issued over the past year. Putting E15 into our general fuel supply could adversely impact up to 60 percent of cars on the road today – leading to consumer confusion at the pump and possible engine failure in the cars they drive. These decisions can also negatively impact marine and other non-road engines such as boats and lawn mowers. My amendment put the brakes on E15 for the rest of the fiscal year, giving Congress time to address these questions and ensure consumer safety at the pump.”
Questions regarding the viability and safety of E15 in many of today’s vehicles has stirred up significant debate over the past several months. For more background and coverage on E15, click here.
