Number: RS20163
Title: SULFUR IN GASOLINE AND THE 106TH CONGRESS
Authors: Stephen Thompson and James E. McCarthy, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: Sulfur in gasoline reduces the effectiveness of catalytic converters in vehicles, thus increasing tailpipe emissions that adversely affect human health and the environment. Mobile sources of air pollution, including light-duty vehicles and trucks, contribute 49 percent of total nitrogen oxides inventory, 40 percent of volatile organic compounds including hydrocarbons, about one-quarter of particulate matter smaller than 10 microns, and nearly 80 percent of carbon monoxide. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is studying whether to limit the level of sulfur in gasoline in order to protect vehicle catalytic converters and vehicle on-board diagnostic systems, and as away of facilitating lower vehicle emission standards in the future. EPA sent proposed regulations imposing limits on sulfur in gasoline to the Office of Management and Budget for approval. Bills introduced during the 106th Congress would limit sulfur- in gasoline. Reports indicate that EPA wants a nationwide, year-round standard of 40 ppm of sulfur in gasoline or, alternatively at the discretion of each gasoline producer, 80 ppm so long as the average over a year is no higher than 30 ppm. Auto manufacturers and states support setting that standard, while petroleum refineries seek less stringent and more localized limits.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated July 12, 1999