EPA to Cut Back on Benzene in Gasoline

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Environmental Protection Agency has announced a plan to cut benzene in gasoline by 36 percent, starting in 2011.

EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson announced the plan on March 3, and noted that under the proposal, passenger cars would release 45 percent less benzene by 2030.

The proposal, named the Mobile Source Air Toxic regulations, would lower benzene in gasoline, reduce exhaust emissions from passenger vehicles operating below 75 degrees and reduce emissions that evaporate from portable gasoline containers.

Provided the measure survives the 60-day comment period, it would take effect in 2011 for fuel requirements, 2010 for …