API ads target plan for higher ethanol mandates in gasoline

The American Petroleum Institute (API) recently launched a TV and online advocacy campaign against proposed higher mandated minimum ethanol levels in gasoline under Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) regulations.

“The American consumer is seeking relief from the broken and outdated RFS mandate,” API Downstream Group Director Frank Macchiarola said. “This mandate and the high ethanol blends it will bring can result in damaged engines and fuel systems, potentially forcing drivers to pay for costly repairs, according to extensive testing by the auto and oil and natural gas industries. This broken RFS mandate could also raise prices at the pump.”

API said a recent poll found 73 percent of respondents believed increased ethanol levels could boost gas prices, with 77 percent concerned about the government requiring higher ethanol levels in gasoline. The Congressional Budget Office found that increased ethanol-consumption levels could lead to consumers paying an extra 26 cents per gallon of gasoline. API called increased ethanol mandates a potential threat to the country’s energy renaissance.

“These new ads will help further inform voters about the potential dangers of the broken ethanol mandate, and increase calls on Congress to fix the RFS,” Macchiarola said.