House Republicans Vote to Dilute Gas as Prices Rise Above $4.50
9 hours ago
- #Gas Prices
- #Energy Policy
- #Ethanol Fuel
- House Republicans passed a bill to allow year-round sales of E15 gasoline nationwide, which is currently restricted in half the country during summer due to air pollution concerns.
- The bill passed the House 218-203 but faces challenges in the Senate, needing 60 votes to overcome a filibuster and reach President Trump.
- The legislation aims to lower fuel costs for drivers ahead of the high-demand summer season, with current national average gas prices at $4.53 per gallon, up $1.50 since late February.
- The EPA temporarily allowed E15 sales from May 1-20 and removed restrictions for E10 sales nationwide, promoting ethanol use to reduce greenhouse gases.
- E15 is cheaper than E10, estimated at $0.25 less per gallon or 5-10% lower, though it can increase smog-forming emissions in heat and has less energy, leading to higher fuel consumption.
- E15 contains 15% ethanol and is approved for model year 2001 and newer light-duty vehicles, but not for motorcycles, heavy-duty engines, or off-road equipment, and is available in 31 states at over 3,000 stations.