U.S. Legislative Updates

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EPA Announces Ethanol Waiver

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that it is waiving the limitation on selling fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol for model year 2007 and newer cars and light trucks. The waiver applies to blends that contain up to 15 percent ethanol (E15) and only applies to model year 2007 and newer vehicles. EPA characterized the waiver as "the first of a number of actions" that are needed from federal and state government, as well as from industry, to commercialize E15 gasoline blends. EPA plans to make a decision later this year on the use of E15 in model year 2001-2006 vehicles after additional Department of Energy testing. EPA stated, however, that no waiver will be granted for the use of E15 in vehicles manufactured prior to 2000, or in any motorcycles, heavy-duty vehicles, or non-road engines.

To assist consumers in identifying the correct fuel for their vehicles, EPA is also proposing retail pump labeling requirements, including a requirement that the fuel industry specify the ethanol content of gasoline sold to retailers. Retailers should exercise caution in deciding whether to sell E15, as doing so could expose them to liability arising from consumers using a blend for which their vehicle is not certified, as well as liability issues related to tanks and equipment that are not certified for blends above E10.

NHTSA Reissues Safety Warning on 15-Passenger Vans

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has re-issued its safety advisory on 15-passenger vans, warning drivers especially in the fall and winter driving seasons, that the vans present a rollover risk.

Tire maintenance is paramount in ensuring the safety of 15-passenger vans, the agency said. Owners and operators of the vans should make sure the tires on their vehicles are the proper size, and also check for wear and proper inflation before any trip, NHTSA advised. Also, NHTSA recommended: Owners should ensure the vehicles are properly maintained; that all drivers are fully trained and experienced in handling vehicles of that size; and that never under any circumstances should the vehicles be overloaded.

Detailed information on 15-passenger vehicles is online at NHTSA's website.