Illinois is the number one producer of ethanol in the country, and increasing production to replace MTBE will greatly benefit the farm economy. The Clean Air Act of 1990 required refiners in high fuel use areas to add an oxygenate to gasoline to make it burn more cleanly. MTBE has been widely used for this purpose and has reduced emissions, but it has also contaminated groundwater, even in areas that do not use it.
Small amounts can make water smell and taste like turpentine.
Our bill will not only help farmers, but it will protect the environment. Costello is a member of the House Alcohol Fuels Caucus and is a strong supporter of ethanol. He assisted successful efforts to locate the first ethanol research facility in the country at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Costello also cosponsored this legislation during the 106th Congress.