For Release: Wednesday, February 14th, 2001
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO JOINS BIPARTISAN GROUP IN INTRODUCING BILL TO ELIMINATE MTBE

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today helped reintroduce legislation to phase out the use of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), a gasoline additive that has been found to have a negative effect on the nation's water quality. Costello supports the use of ethanol, a clean burning, environmentally safe gasoline additive, as a replacement for MTBE.

"It is time to put an end to MTBE, and this legislation will provide for the use of ethanol nationwide," Costello said. "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. The bill would phase out the use of MTBE over three years, while also directing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assist states in cleaning up existing contamination.

"Our bill will not only help farmers, but it will protect the environment. Ethanol use is clearly a win-win situation for the country," stated Costello.

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.

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