SEMA urged the U.S. Congress to support a provision to prevent the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using designated funds to increase the amount of allowable ethanol content in gasoline to 15% (E15). SEMA contends the legislation is necessary to protect automotive enthusiasts and consumers from misfueling and other unnecessary harm.
The provision, offered as an amendment to a bill funding the federal government for the remainder of fiscal year 2011, will suspend the EPA’s efforts to quickly permit E15 in the marketplace. SEMA argues that more time is needed for the completion of unbiased and independent testing on the impact of E15 on vehicles and engines. SEMA will continue to oppose E15 until there are conclusive scientific findings that demonstrate that it will not harm automobiles of any age as a result of corrosion or other chemical incompatibilities.
SEMA represents thousands of companies that market products for these vehicles and, through its SEMA Action Network, millions of enthusiasts who buy and operate these automobiles.
For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.