Blunt pushes for 5% biodiesel requirement

The biodiesel plan is part of Senate Bill 759 and would go into effect April 1, 2010. The legislation follows the Jan. 1 enactment of a bill that requires all gas in Missouri to contain 10 percent ethanol.

Biodiesel made from soybeans is more environmentally friendly than regular diesel, and research shows it cuts carbon dioxide and carcinogenic emissions by more than 75 percent, according to a news release from Blunt’s office. A B5 standard in Missouri would cut particulate matter emissions by 15.4 million pounds and carbon monoxide emissions by 168 million pounds, the release said.

Blunt also is calling for a new tax incentive program to expand access to fuel with 85 percent ethanol, or E85, a new state income tax deduction for Missourians who purchase hybrid vehicles and tax credits for Missourians who purchase E85 fuel.