WASHINGTON, DC—Legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Bruce Braley (D-Iowa) today requiring that all gasoline sold in the U.S. carry country-of-origin labeling (COOL) would create more market transparency for American consumers of foreign petroleum, according to a statement released by Growth Energy, the leading voice for U.S. ethanol supporters.
“Congressman Braley’s bill would let U.S. drivers know where they are sending their dollars when they fill up at the pump. American motorists should know where their money is going – whether it is staying here or being sent overseas to the coffers of foreign nations,” said Jim Nussle, President of Growth Energy.
“Most Americans fill up their cars with gas a few times a week, but they have no idea where that gas is coming from,” said Rep. Braley. “This bill would give American consumers more information at the gas station and the choice to vote with their wallets. By showing people exactly where their gas is coming from, we can lower costs, increase demand for American-made fuel and create more jobs in this country instead of overseas.”
Two thirds of the oil used in America is imported from overseas. This reliance on foreign oil comes at a cost to taxpayers of at least $50 billion to protect oil shipping routes. More than $300 billion is drained from the U.S. economy each year – money that could be spent in the United States to create jobs if it were invested in renewable, low-carbon ethanol.
“It’s time for the American people to understand what our dependence on foreign oil costs our country and what they can do to help stop it. Country of origin labeling for fuel will let consumers know if they are pumping a domestic-made fuel, like ethanol, or fuel from a foreign source,” added Nussle.
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About Growth Energy
Growth Energy represents the producers and supporters of ethanol who feed the world and fuel America in ways that achieve energy independence, improve economic well-being and create a healthier environment for all Americans now.