WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill commended the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) announcement that they will allow gasoline containing up to 15 percent ethanol (E15) to be used in new-model cars. McCaskill has been a supporter of first generation biofuels like corn-based ethanol since her arrival in Washington. Earlier this summer, she sent a letter with seven of her Senate colleagues to President Obama, urging the Department of Energy to complete their tests of E15 to allow the EPA to issue today's announcement more quickly.

Today's decision will allow higher levels of ethanol to be used in gasoline for new-model cars made in 2007 or later, meaning higher demand for ethanol made by Missouri biofuel producers. However, EPA still has work to do. Today's announcement does not include a final decision on vehicles manufactured between 2001 and 2006. EPA failed to issue guidelines for these vehicles, saying more testing is needed. McCaskill made this statement following the announcement:

"Today's announcement is great news for Missouri's biofuel producers and for many Missouri families. This is an important step in our efforts to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and hopefully it will mean growth and jobs in the biofuel industry in Missouri. I hope EPA can come to a swift conclusion regarding the testing they are still doing on E15 suitability for cars made between 2001 and 2006."

Specifically the EPA announced today that:

• Gasoline that contains greater than 10 volume percent ethanol and up to 15 volume percent ethanol (E15) can be used in model year 2007 and newer light-duty motor vehicles, including passenger cars, light-duty trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUV).

• E15 should not be used in model year 2000 vehicles and older. It should also not be used in heavy-duty gasoline engines, motorcycles, and non-road engines, vehicles, and equipment, including lawn mowers, chainsaws and boats.

• Testing is ongoing for light-duty vehicles from model year 2001 to 2006.

The EPA is will also be announcing additional labeling guidelines for gas stations to reduce the potential for consumers using E15 in vehicles, engines, and products for which it may be dangerous.

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