The Trump administration is moving to increase gasoline supplies and bring down soaring prices at the pump by ending federal summer-blend fuel requirements roughly two weeks ahead of schedule, the Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday.
Under the change, the EPA will permit the sale of E10 gasoline — fuel containing 10% ethanol — with a higher Reid Vapor Pressure beginning September 1 rather than waiting until the normal mid-September transition.
Federal regulations generally require lower-volatility summer gasoline through September 15 as part of an effort to reduce air pollution during warmer months. The specialized blends have a lower Reid Vapor Pressure, which reduces evaporation that can contribute to the formation of smog.
The administration’s move comes as American motorists face sharply higher fuel costs amid the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, which has pushed gasoline prices significantly above their levels from a year ago.
The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline stood at $4.10 on Thursday, according to AAA data. That represents a jump of nearly $1 per gallon from approximately $3.13 at the same point last year.
The surge in fuel costs has also emerged as a political concern for President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans as the party seeks to maintain control of both the House and Senate in November’s midterm elections.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright signaled earlier this week that additional action could be coming. Wright, who met with oil refiners in Midland, Texas, said the administration would take steps in the coming days aimed at getting fuel prices under control.
The EPA said Thursday’s action will also override state-level restrictions in Texas, Arizona and California that would otherwise keep certain summer fuel requirements in effect beyond September 15. The waivers will initially remain in place for the maximum allowable period of 20 days.
The agency indicated that it is prepared to keep the emergency flexibility in place if gasoline supplies remain tight.
“As the EPA has done all summer, we will be monitoring gasoline supplies in those states and will be prepared to extend the waiver through a subsequent action as long as necessary to ensure adequate supplies of gasoline to consumers,” the EPA said.
{Matzav.com}
