Study: "Boutique" Gasoline Does Not Factor Into High Fuel Prices

Washington DC June 24, 2006;; The AIADA newsletter reported that a government study shows "boutique" gasoline blends, which help states meet clean air rules, are not a factor in higher prices, reported The Associated Press.

The study, ordered by President Bush last April, was conducted by a task force headed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Representatives from all 50 states, as well as the Departments of Energy and Agriculture, were also involved in the study.

According to a late draft of the report obtained Thursday by AP, the task force concludes that suggestions of a connection between boutique fuels and supply or price concerns cannot be supported.

The review "did not reveal any studies or empirical data confirming that boutique fuels presently contribute to higher fuel prices or present unusual distribution problems," according to the report.