Activist asks that gas stations sell ethanol-free fuel

Friday, November 27, 2009

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Most gas sold in Florida contains up to 10 percent ethanol; David McGeorge would like to change that.

BAY NEWS 9 -- Most gas stations in Florida are currently selling fuel that contains up to ten percent ethanol.

But ethanol critic David McGeorge said ethanol lowers fuel economy and also clogs engines. McGeorge has drafted a petition demanding gas stations carry ethanol-free fuel.

"Sometimes you just don't have a choice," McGeorge said. "And I hate that, but that's the facts that the government's pushing on us - use it or don't go anywhere."

Last year, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist signed a law that requiring every gas station in the state to sell nothing but ten percent ethanol blends by 2011.

McGeorge said he's collected more than 300 signatures in five weeks. But aside from the state law, he'll also have to overcome a federal regulation. Beginning next year, Washington will require oil companies to use a percentage of ethanol in all of their fuels.