As people prepare for the long Labor Day weekend, gassing up vehicles, recreational vehicles, boats, and power equipment, they are urged to pay close attention to any warning on the gas pumps. “The label which tells you that This fuel may contain 10% ethanol should be preceded by the word, ‘WARNING!,’” says Jim Maas, Vice Chair of the Libertarian Party of Wisconsin and candidate for the 85th Assembly seat.

Ethanol is not good for taxpayers and may be hazardous to the environment, the economy, and most kinds of gasoline engines. It can damage engines and corrode automotive pipes, as well as impair some safety features, especially in older vehicles. It can also overwhelm pollution control systems. Malfunctions multiply in engines for boats, lawnmowers, chainsaws, and and other small engines. Ethanol is an excellent solvent (dissolves plastic, rubber, fiberglass, and other fuel system components). Ethanol tends to absorb water, which can cause serious problems in some engines. Therefore, keeping more than a 3 week supply on hand is not recommended.

The Environmental Protection Agency has admitted that increased use of ethanol in gasoline will result in worse air quality. Total emission of key air pollutants such as volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides will increase because of expanded use of ethanol.

It is not good for taxpayers because the United States and Wisconsin governments have granted a multitude of tax incentives and subsidies to promote the growth of a domestic ethanol industry. The Taxpayers for Common Sense, alleges that “ethanol has neither reduced dependence on foreign oil nor significantly helped to reduce pollution,” and that taxpayer subsidies “serve no other purpose than to artificially prop up the corn and ethanol industry.”

Ethanol has been subsidized for over 30 years and still is not cost-effective. If biofuels made any sense as a substitute for fossil fuels, they would not need to be subsidized. However, it is not enough for corporate corn ethanol producers, who want even more government life support. “What are the chances that, now that we know the truth about gasoline adulterated with corn alcohol, that politicians will remove their support for this boondoggle?,” asks Maas.

Maas is no longer is able to find a source for ethanol-free regular gas in the Wausau area. He is not looking forward to buying premium grade gas for the lawn mower this weekend.
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