EPA decision to increase percentage of ethanol in gasoline in line with WGA recommendations

on 13 October 2010.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2010
Contact: Alex Schroeder
303-623-9378

DENVER -- GOv. C.L. "Butch" Otter (Idaho), Chairman of the Western Governors' Association, commented today on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's decision to allow up to 15 percent blending of ethanol in unleaded gasoline for cars and light trucks manufactured in 2007 or later. The standard of 10 percent ethanol has been in place since the 1970s.

"The Western Governors' Association Transportation Fuels Advisory Committee, a diverse group of stakeholders, recommended in its 2008 report that federal agencies work to resolve questions related to the impact intermediate blends of ethanol may have on engine compatibility and emissions.

"I'm pleased that both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy followed up with the analysis needed to prove the feasibility of higher blends of ethanol in our vehicles. This step will greatly increase the market for alternative fuels and help us to continue moving forward on our goals for energy independence."

# # # #