Fuel Waivers: EPA Approves Hurricane-Related Waivers for Parts of Kentucky and Texas

Washington DC, Sept 17. 2008 - As the result of the disruption in the supply of fuel caused by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, EPA has exercised its authority under the Clean Air Act to temporarily waive certain federal clean gasoline requirements for parts of Kentucky and Texas. These waivers will allow greater flexibility for the fuel distribution system to support an adequate supply.

The two waivers were granted today by EPA in coordination with the Department of Energy, at the request of Kentucky and Texas. EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson determined that extreme and unusual supply circumstances exist, which are likely to result in a shortage of gasoline compliant with federal regulations. The federal waivers will help ensure an adequate supply of gasoline in the affected areas.

As required by law, EPA evaluated the situation and determined that granting short-term waivers were consistent with the public interest.

State-specific summaries:

Kentucky: The waiver enables the sale of conventional gasoline in reformulated gas areas through Sept. 30. These areas include Boone, Campbell, Jefferson, Kenton, and parts of Bullitt and Oldham Counties.

Texas: On Sept. 11, EPA issued a waiver permitting conventional gasoline with a maximum Reid vapor pressure of 11.5 psi to be sold in eastern Texas. EPA is now issuing a superseding waiver to remove the 11.5 psi limitation in these areas through Oct. 1.