SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5992

BYSenators Benitz, Williams and Barr

Requiring the department of agriculture to develop a guide on ethanol and methanol.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 21, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Bluechel, Vice Chairman; Stratton, Sutherland, Williams.

Senate Staff:Paul Parker (786-7447)

                  March 13, 1989

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 10, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Use of gasoline and diesel fuels in the transportation sector are a factor in global warming trends.  Importation of foreign oil to meet transportation needs contributes to the negative national trade balance.  Ethanol and methanol fuels provide an opportunity to meet energy needs for transportation with domestic resources that create less adverse environmental impacts on air quality. 

SUMMARY:

The Department of Agriculture is directed to inventory and maintain a list of outlets that sell ethanol and methanol fuels and develop an information guide describing their availability and use.

Appropriation:    $5,000

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 17, 1989

Senate Committee - Testified: John Harder, Washington Association of Wheat Growers (pro); Randy Ray, Wheat Growers (pro); Dr. Bill Kinsel, Tri-City University Center (pro)