| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Technology, Energy & Communications Committee | |
HB 1055
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Defining alternative motor fuels.
Sponsors: Representatives Hudgins, B. Sullivan, Morris, Dunshee and Chase.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/17/07
Staff: Kara Durbin (786-7133).
Background:
Alcohol fuels are made from crops such as corn, wheat, barley, potatoes, sugarcane, and the
cellulose of plants such as switchgrass, straw, and trees. Methanol and ethanol are two types of
alcohol fuels used in motor vehicles. Ethanol is most commonly produced from corn and
sugarcane. Methanol is primarily made from natural gas, but also can be made from renewable
sources.
The term alcohol fuel is not defined consistently in current law. For purposes of the Business
and Occupation tax deduction, "alcohol fuel" is defined as any product other than petroleum or
natural gas in which the fuel constitutes at least 85 percent of any fuel that is blended with
gasoline. For purposes of the retail sales tax exemption,"alcohol fuel blend" is defined as a fuel
that contains at least 85 percent alcohol fuel by volume, which is made from a product other than
petroleum or natural gas that is used alone or in combination with gasoline or other petroleum
products for use as fuel for motor vehicles or farming implements.
The Motor Fuel Quality Act (Act) provides for the establishment of quality specifications for all
liquid motor fuels, except aviation fuel, marine fuel, and liquefied petroleum gases, and it
establishes a sampling, testing, and enforcement program. "Motor fuel" is defined in the Act as
any liquid product used for the generation of power in an internal combustion engine used for the
propulsion of a motor vehicle upon the highways of this state.
The Act contains a definition of diesel and biodiesel fuel, but does not define alcohol fuel.
Summary of Bill:
The Motor Fuel Quality Act is amended to include a definition for alcohol fuel.
"Alcohol fuel" is defined as any alcohol made from a product other than petroleum or natural gas
that is used alone or in combination with gasoline or other petroleum products for use as a fuel in
a self-propelled motor vehicle.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.