A key U.S. House committee has approved a bill that would
require an independent scientific study of the effects of ethanol-gasoline
blends on engines.
By a 19-7 vote on Feb. 7, the House Committee on Science,
Space and Technology approved H.R. 3199 to require the federal Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) to seek an independent scientific analysis of the
effects of E15-a new gasoline formulation that contains up to 15 percent
ethanol by volume-on engines.
The measure, introduced by committee Vice Chairman Jim
Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.), now goes to the full House for a vote. If approved, it
then moves to the Senate for further consideration.
"This independent research is needed to ensure that new
ethanol-gasoline blends won't damage motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle
engines," said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations.
"We applaud the committee for supporting this crucial legislation."
The AMA has repeatedly expressed concerns to government
officials and federal lawmakers about possible damage to motorcycle and ATV
engines caused by the inadvertent use of E15 when the new fuel becomes widely
available, and has asked that motorcycles and ATVs be part of any scientific
study into the effects of E15.
In October 2010, the EPA approved the use of E15 in model
year 2007 and newer light-duty vehicles (cars, light-duty trucks and
medium-duty passenger vehicles). Then, in January 2011, the EPA added model
year 2001-2006 light-duty vehicles to the approved list.
No motorcycles or ATVs are currently on the list.
The ATVA and AMA have expressed concerns about E15 being
mistakenly used and damaging engines in motorcycles and ATVs, and about the
continued availability of gasoline that has no ethanol-or gasoline with only a
10 percent blend-that is safe for use in motorcycles and ATVs.
To contact your federal lawmakers to urge them to support
H.R. 3199, go to ATVAonline.com > Rights > Issue & Legislation.
