This week in Tallahassee, one of my legislative priorities, Senate Bill 238 to repeal the “Florida Renewable Fuel Standard Act," passed it first committee by a 10-1 vote.  The “Florida Renewable Fuel Standard Act,” put in place in 2008, requires that all gasoline for sale contain 10 percent ethanol.  Many of you called me and visited with me about your concerns over ethanol in these blended fuels damaging your outboard engines, lawnmowers and other small internal-combustion engines, which are not prepared to run on this type of fuel and are costly to repair or replace. This led to my filing of the repeal.

I believe the requirement that all gasoline contain 10 percent ethanol must be repealed and taken out of Florida Statues to allow our retailers and dispensers to sell unblended fuel if they are able to obtain it, and allow consumers the option to purchase unblended fuel if they so desire. It is imperative that we remove the requirement and let the law of supply and demand take its course in determining the accessibility of obtaining unblended fuel in our state. Even the Northwest Florida Daily News weighed in on the subject this week and I encourage you to read what they said about this good bill. Click here to read.

SB 238 is now ready to be heard in the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee next, where I hope my fellow Senators will recognize the importance of passing this good bill.  As this bill moves through the process, I may need your help and may ask you to make your voice heard on this issue so stay tuned!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to email me at Greg@Gregevers.com or call my legislative office at (850) 487-5000.

I wish you all a safe and restful weekend.
 
Greg